Mila Sokolova, a resident of Bishkek, called for action against several employees of the city hall, the municipal enterprise "Tazalyk," and the local police, pointing out their "abuse of power." She particularly condemned the practice of shooting dogs in the villages of Novopavlovka and Maevka.
"No documents from the city hall state that armed individuals have the right to shoot dogs in the street, especially in front of their owners or on private property," Sokolova emphasized.
She also noted that cats, which pose no threat, are also being exterminated, and pointed out the violations of the rights of animal lovers and the difficulties they face.
Razia Omarova, another animal rights activist, called for humane treatment of animals, suggesting that funds allocated for shooting should be redirected to shelter maintenance, sterilization, and vaccination. Omarova also proposed to check the operations of state veterinary clinics and the funds allocated for the shooting of animals, as well as demanded stricter penalties for cruelty towards them.
She also commented on the tragic incident that occurred on April 1 in the Kalyis-Ordo-2 new building, when 6-year-old Umar became a victim of a dog attack.
"The boy climbed over the fence and ended up on someone else's property, where he was bitten by dogs guarding the house. Where were his parents at that moment? Why are they not responsible for his safety?" Omarova questioned.
Leila Isaeva, another participant in the press conference, expressed the opinion that shooting animals could negatively affect the mental state of children, as they witness violence, and called for an end to this practice.
Lawyer Zhyldyz Sakiyeva also believes that shooting is not a solution to the problem of stray animals and may pose a threat to passersby. She suggested using more humane methods of population control.
All participants of the press conference appealed to the authorities to pay attention to their concerns and problems.
