Guwahati HC issues interim injunction against buffalo fighting in Assam after PETA petition

Gauhati High Court temporarily halts any future buffalo fights, termed mokhjuj Assamese, in response to a request for interim relief from PETA India.

Justice Manish Choudhury, while issuing an order on Thursday (February 1), stressed that such events held after January 25 are illegal citing violation of Assam government rules Time limits specified in standard operating procedures. Specifically, authorities in Nagaon district were ordered to prevent a scheduled buffalo fight this weekend, based on evidence provided by PETA India.

The court’s interim order requires strict compliance with the state government’s standard operating procedures, pending further consideration of PETA India’s plea challenging the constitutionality of allowing such activities. Additionally, the state must submit an action report by February 6.

The animal rights group’s petition highlights multiple violations of central laws during these incidents, including severe abuse of buffaloes. Investigations revealed harrowing practices such as physical abuse to incite fights, including slapping, pushing and jabbing animals. The buffalo was injured and bled during the confrontation and suffered further pain as it was dragged with a rope passed through its nostrils.

PETA India said bullfighting not only violated central laws but also violated India’s core values ​​of compassion and non-violence. The organization highlighted the inherent cruelty of such performances and called for them to be banned in order to safeguard animal welfare and human rights advancement.

Bullfighting and bulbul fighting are an integral part of Assamese tradition. Earlier, these fights were organized every year during Magh Bihu, but it was stopped for a few years. This year, in a cabinet meeting before Magh Bihu, the state decided to revive the scheme by introducing standard operating procedures to be followed.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and her family members along with other ministers like Pijush Hazarika also celebrated the Ahatguri bullfight after nine years return.Salma previously said: “I recently had the opportunity to witness mokhjuj Ahatguri follows a nine-year hiatus as part of the ongoing efforts to revive and preserve the timeless Bihu tradition of Assam. Bullfighting, introduced by Ahom king Rudra Singha, has always been an integral part of the Assamese community along with elephant and bulbul fights. “