A shocking video posted by digital creator Nouman Hassan has brought attention to Pakistan’s growing problem of exotic animal ownership. The footage shows a man riding a chained tiger, sparking concerns about animal welfare, public safety, and conservation efforts.
Despite existing laws prohibiting private ownership of exotic animals, including tigers, lions, and other wild species, the practice has become increasingly popular among Pakistan’s wealthy elite. Lax enforcement has allowed this trend to continue, raising alarms about the treatment and living conditions of these animals in captivity.
The viral video, shared on Instagram, shows a man calmly riding a chained tiger while leading it through an open area. In the background, two additional cages are visible, one containing a lion and the other a lioness. This has further raised concerns about the welfare of these wild animals in captivity.
The video, which quickly garnered over 100,000 views, sparked outrage on social media. Many users expressed their dismay at the treatment of the tiger and the apparent disregard for animal welfare. “Don’t hurt that animal, it’s not here to carry your weight. Besides keeping it locked up, are you going to mistreat it?” one user commented.
Another added, “What kind of sick person chains such a majestic animal for entertainment?” The criticism continued, with a third viewer stating, “The poor tiger looks so helpless. This is blatant animal cruelty,” and a fourth commenter noting, “That’s not the place for an animal that belongs in the jungle.”
In Pakistan, where it’s estimated that over 100 tigers are kept as pets. Many of these animals are either smuggled into the country from neighbouring nations or bred in captivity under inadequate conditions. The video has prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws and stronger measures to prevent the exploitation of exotic animals in Pakistan.
