Assam Government to Introduce Law Legalizing Buffalo Fights: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

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Assam government to introduce law to legalise buffalo fights: CM.
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In a major announcement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma declared that the state government is preparing to introduce a new law that will legalize buffalo fights. The move is aimed at preserving Assam’s cultural heritage, particularly the buffalo fights of Ahatguri, which hold historical and cultural importance.

Speaking at a public gathering in Jagiroad after inaugurating a bridge, CM Sarma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting and promoting traditional sports in the state.

Buffalo Fights in Assam: A Historical and Cultural Legacy

Buffalo fights have been an integral part of Assamese tradition, especially during the Magh Bihu festival, a harvest festival celebrated in January. Among the many locations where these fights take place, Ahatguri in Assam’s Morigaon district is the most famous, drawing thousands of spectators every year.

The tradition of buffalo fights dates back centuries and is believed to have been influenced by Assam’s agricultural lifestyle, where buffaloes play a crucial role in farming. These fights are organized to showcase the strength and agility of these animals, and many farmers take pride in raising and training their buffaloes specifically for this purpose.

CM Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the importance of this tradition and stated, “The buffalo fight of Ahatguri is a vital part of our heritage, and even the Supreme Court has recognized it as a traditional game. Based on their guidelines, we will soon introduce a law to protect and promote traditional sports, including buffalo fights.”

Assam Government’s Plan to Introduce a New Law

The Assam government is planning to present a bill in the state assembly that will provide legal protection to buffalo fights and other traditional sports. This law aims to ensure that these events can be conducted legally without violating any existing animal welfare laws.

The government’s decision comes in response to past legal challenges, including a ruling by the Gauhati High Court in December 2023, which struck down the Assam government’s 2023 Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) allowing buffalo fights and bulbul bird fights during Magh Bihu.

Legal Challenges and Supreme Court Rulings on Animal Fights

The Gauhati High Court’s decision was based on a 2014 Supreme Court ruling, which banned animal fights under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The court found that the Assam government’s SOP violated the Supreme Court’s directive, leading to the cancellation of permissions for buffalo fights and bulbul bird fights.

However, recognizing the cultural significance of these events, the Assam government has been working to find a legal framework that allows these traditions to continue while ensuring animal safety and welfare.

Revival of Bulbul Bird Fights and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

After nearly nine years of suspension, the traditional bulbul bird fights were revived in January 2023 with a new set of guidelines issued by the Assam government. Similarly, the state had allowed buffalo fights to resume under a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that included various safety measures:

  • Banning the use of intoxicating substances on buffaloes
  • Prohibiting sharp objects that could injure the animals
  • Ensuring veterinary supervision before and after the fights

These SOPs were introduced to strike a balance between tradition and animal welfare, but the High Court’s decision in December 2023 ruled that these guidelines were insufficient under the existing laws.

Public Response to the Government’s Move

The announcement by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has been met with widespread support, especially from local communities, cultural activists, and traditionalists who have long demanded the legalization of buffalo fights. Many believe that these events are not just a form of entertainment but also a crucial part of Assam’s cultural identity.

Residents of Ahatguri, where the most famous buffalo fights are held, have welcomed the government’s initiative, stating that the legalization will help preserve their age-old traditions and promote rural tourism.

Potential Impact on Tourism and Economy

Legalizing buffalo fights under a proper regulatory framework could also have a positive impact on Assam’s tourism sector. Events like the Ahatguri buffalo fights attract thousands of visitors from across the state and beyond. A legalized and well-organized event could boost local businesses, including hospitality, transportation, and handicraft industries.

Additionally, the move could encourage the preservation of indigenous buffalo breeds, as farmers and breeders will have economic incentives to raise and train these animals.

A Step Toward Cultural Preservation and Regulation

The Assam government’s decision to introduce a new law legalizing buffalo fights is a major step towards preserving cultural heritage while ensuring compliance with animal welfare laws. The move seeks to balance tradition with regulation, ensuring that these historic events can continue in a responsible manner.

Once the bill is passed, buffalo fights will be legally protected, allowing people to enjoy them as part of Assam’s rich heritage while following ethical guidelines to ensure the safety of the animals.

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