Supreme Court Judge Justice Athar Minallah on Sunday labelled the era of General Zia-ul-Haq as the “most terrifying” period in Pakistan’s history, describing it as a time when human rights were egregiously violated.

Addressing the first International Animal Rights and Environment Conference in Lahore, Justice Minallah reflected on the harsh realities of the Zia era, citing the establishment of torture cells, the prolonged incarceration of individuals, and the forced disappearance of political opponents, including the tragic assassination of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

“The Zia era was marked by violence and terror, where power was seized through force,” Justice Minallah told the audience.

He added that during this period, citizens were subjected to torture, and many were imprisoned for extended periods without trial or reason. He also highlighted the brutal murder of Bhutto, which remains a deeply divisive and painful chapter in Pakistan's history.

At the conference, Justice Minallah shared insights into the work of the Islamabad High Court, particularly its significant rulings on human rights issues.

He stressed the court’s commitment to upholding prisoners' rights, ensuring justice in cases of enforced disappearances, and safeguarding basic human rights.

“As a judge, I can feel the pain of families who endure the agony of not knowing the fate of their loved ones,” he said, referring to the heart-wrenching consequences of enforced disappearances.

Justice Minallah also addressed the landmark decision concerning the Islamabad Zoo, asserting that animal rights deserve the same level of attention as human rights. He stressed that every form of life—whether human, animal, or plant—holds intrinsic value and must be protected.

In his address, he further underscored the need for stricter measures to safeguard animal rights in Pakistan. “We must take immediate steps to protect animal rights and address the issue of cruelty against animals in our society,” he urged.

Additionally, Justice Minallah expressed his concern over the environmental degradation of Bani Gala, a region once recognized for its natural beauty and potential as a sanctuary for wildlife.

He lamented how the area’s natural landscapes were damaged by the construction of residences by the elite, despite initial plans by town planners to preserve its ecological integrity.

During the conference, Justice Minallah congratulated the organizers for hosting Pakistan’s first international conference focused on animal rights and environmental preservation, calling it a crucial step towards promoting awareness and action on these vital issues.