fighter bulls goa
There are fighting bulls in Goa, a small state on the west coast of India. They are the cause of enough noise, frantic sprinting, and even bloodshed to recall the bull runs of Pamplona earlier in the century.
But this is Goa at the end of the century. And the bullfight here is one in which the bulls fight one another. When there is bloodshed, it is not caused by an elegant matador, sequinned and rakish, but by a pair of horns filed and sharpened down to a lance point.
There are no fences or barricades here. Bullfights are usually held in an old rice field just outside a village, and the crowd -- whose complex Sunday lunches quickly become a liability when it's time to get out of the way of an unreasonable animal -- provides the enclosure. They do reluctantly put up the odd rickety bamboo fence to provide token protection for a visiting VIP, but everyone in the crowd knows that a few sticks of bamboo will do absolutely nothing to halt half a ton of charging bull.
Fighting bulls bear interesting names in Goa, and bout cards make slightly bizarre reading. Alibaba vs. Second Krishna. Brazil vs. Mad Max. Sea Harrier vs. Kingofsouth.
The animals are bred and trained to fight, and later retire as studs. Although trainers traditionally do not breathe a word about their ward's regimen and habits, the essence of bringing up a fighting bull is a carefully monitored diet, supplemented by enough vitamins and minerals to supply a small school. Late at night, in the tavernas around the village square, when feni -- that clear and dangerous liquor distilled from the cashew apple -- has loosened an incautious tongue or two, exotica like sardines and molasses are mentioned, as are puréed jackfruit and dried figs. But nothing's certain: what's said during these long and bibulous village nights, especially in deepest south Goa, vanishes like strange dreams, especially on the morning of a fight.
In Konkani, the local tongue, the fight is called dhirio. There is, of course, heavy betting, which is why the fights are advertised on the sports pages of the local daily papers. The bookies are influential enough to arrange matters so that the opening bout of the season is almost always attended by the nearest convenient dignitary. This past season, both the chief minister of Goa and the Portuguese consul general obliged. The bulls, I am told, did not charge them.
The morning of a fight, pickup vans are driven around the local villages, with banners fluttering, music blaring, and incomprehensible announcements booming out through election-rally-sized speakers. The pickup van is likely to be carrying one of the prize contestants, red-sashed and outraged at being made a spectacle of. It adds to the bull's already bad temper, and gets the betting going.
Large sums are involved: in some cases, allowing for long enough odds, 20,000 rupees (about $500) has been won on a single fight. This is a scale of betting that has naturally led to allegations of fixed fights and even the occasional nobbling of a prize bull. After a particularly questionable defeat, when post-mortems are being conducted in the bars, tempers run foul. Late into such nights, there is sometimes blood spilled that is no longer a bull's.
Before a fight, a trainer gets his animal down on its knees for as long as possible, keeping up a stream of chatter and patting it all the while. This apparently primes the bull, who is led out to the field and then strenuously encouraged to kneel again. Some bulls, who seem to respond to their trainers' words the way a hunting dog does, will comply. Others won't. It is only the very confident trainers who squat right there beside their charges, now haranguing them, building up the bulls' tempers and doing this, incredibly, with a hand clamped around the bulls' gonads. There is no dearth of opinion on this extraordinary tactic: some old-timers insist it tells the bull who the boss is and gives the trainer a degree of control he cannot otherwise hope to achieve. Others say the hand is there to provide a final infuriating squeeze, just as the other bull gets within snorting range.
At a recent fight in the village of Caranzalem, a strapping bull named Super Fighter decided he didn't like dhirios, crowds, and other bulls, and took off from the field, chased by a certain Johnny Baba, whom he was scheduled to fight. Instead of heading for the open road, though, Super Fighter barreled down a village path, which in Goa is full of twists and turns, overhanging thatch, and fish drying out in the sun. Fearful of the potential collateral damage, the organizers and trainers of both animals sped off in pursuit. As the fearful ruckus receded, a German camera crew that had arrived to film the affair looked around, puzzled: Was this at all about bullfighting?
The crowd knew better. Two minutes later Super Fighter reappeared and some perversion led him to charge back through the throng and into the rice field where the match was to be held. Johnny Baba was right behind him.
Super Fighter spun round to charge a very surprised Johnny Baba, who didn't stop to argue but instead shot away through the crowd and up one of the bunds that bordered the field. Johnny Baba toppled at least seven men in his mad rush, and on the way took a sideswipe at the German crew's video stand, sending a tripod and camera flying. Once he reached the road, Johnny Baba quickly galloped off toward the city of Panjim. Following close behind him, Super Fighter turned his head to keep track of his enemy but neglected to turn his body and crashed into the row of scooters parked along the road. He knocked them flat and then blundered away toward the city.
The crowd loved it and howled with laughter -- at the bulls but also at the Germans, who had hastily piled into their van in the hope of getting at least some footage of a maddened Goan bull.
Sometimes you are in the presence of a truly incorrigible mature bull, and the atmosphere quickly becomes tense. The betting slips are laid down, and the soda bottles are forgotten. Here and there, a few quick slugs of feni go down. Stepping deliberately through the crowd, the confident old fighting bulls don't really need to be led. Tense and trembling with anticipation, they nevertheless contain their anger for the field, their fast-talking trainers hurrying alongside toward the middle. As the bull sizes up its opponent, the crowd settles down into a contented murmuring, knowing a real contest is at hand.
These are bulls who are sure of their staying power and their ability to strike, who know how to hook viciously around and through the tough folds of skin on their opponent's necks, who know how to make the blood flow and weaken their foe, and who then plant their massive hooves into the red Goan soil and slash at the belly. These are the calculating warriors -- fewer and fewer are bred and fight nowadays -- and it still sends shivers down the spines of the old-timers when they hear of the steady-eyed fighting bulls of Goa.
Bull fight is a very popular game in Goa that takes place between two bulls. It is known as 'Dhirio' in Konkani and is a simple game in which the bulls fight one another. The bulls are bred and trained to fight and the game attracts huge crowds. It usually takes place in an open area with a bamboo fence created outside the Village.
Goan bull fighting involves huge betting of money done by the owner on their bulls. The people in the crowd back their favourites and a lot of money is made or lost in one game. The game involves a lot of excitement and sometimes one can witness some frantic sprinting and even bloodshed at times.
Bullfighting was banned in Goa in 1998. Before the ban, some Goa politicians graced bullfights as chief guests and even owned some fighter bulls. Announcements could be made in local newspapers or over a loudspeaker on a vehicle moving through the village and the bullfights would be accompanied by loud blaring Music. It was a lot ofEntertainment for the people of Goa and would often be organized by the cash-rich Goans.
Today however some illegal bull fight games still take place at some parts in Goa and people are informed about it in about 30 minutes. The game is very famous especially in the South of Goa and is also sometimes witnessed in the villages like Caranzalem, Santa Cruz, Taleigao and many more.
PANJIM: With the Environment Ministry banning use of bulls as performing animals, several traditional games, including bull-fights in Goa, will now become a part of history.
In fact, bull-fights in the state have already been banned by the Bombay High Court in 1996, even though they are illegally being held at some places in the state.
The MoEF notification will also cease political attempts in Goa to revive bull fights, which are enjoyed in the coastal taluka of Salcette.
Animal rights organisation Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO) has welcomed the move.
MoEF issued the notification on July 11, 2011, which added bull in the list of animals including bear, monkey, tiger, panther and lion that cannot be trained or used as a performing animal under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960.
Bull-fights were popular in Goa's coastal belt before they were banned by the Bombay High Court in 1996. The court had cited cruelty to animals as the reason for the ban. However, bull fights continue to be held at some places illegally.
Goa Legislative Assembly had moved a Bill in 2009 to legalise bull fights, which could not get assent of the Governor.
MP Fransisco Sardinha had also tried to move an amendment in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act in 2009 to legalise bull fighting. But the attempt was opposed by many including former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh.
The recent notification, however, is supported by FIAPO, which is an umbrella organisation of animal welfare groups in India. "Bulls now cannot be made to perform in events like Jallikattu and Rekla races in south India and the Dhirio of Goa and in any form of cinematography," said Dr Chinny Krishna, the chairman of FIAPO.
He said this is a landmark development for bulls and we compliment the ministry for this initiative. "Hundreds of bulls are tortured in barbaric events like Jallikattu and Rekla races in south India and the Dhirio of Goa. With this notification, bulls are to be considered performing animals for the purpose of such events," he said.
FIAPO has said that bulls in various parts of the country are routinely exploited and abused for races and other forms of performance. "They are made to take part in cruel cart races in villages and towns across the country. Most of these races typically inflict pain and suffering on the animals," Krishna said.
He said FIAPO and its member organisations have often received complaints that during these races, the cart drivers poke the animals in their sensitive parts with nails and sticks, whip them mercilessly and even drug them with alcohol, all in order to make them run faster than the other. "Every year, in certain districts of Tamil Nadu, people chase and taunt bulls for fun in a cruel "game" called Jallikattu. During these events, large groups of men and boys throw themselves on top of a bull in an effort to 'tame' him and grab a prize," he said. – PTI
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Comments (9)
CHICARITO
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Banning "DHIRIO" will not help much it is only going to help the Guaa Police for extra income through the settings (the bull owners or the social workers agree with the police to pay them for the fight to take place in their juridiction certain percentage of the bets they play on the fights.)Last month there was a Dhirio between two reddeas(he buffoloes)owners hailing from varca Waren Alemao and his boys and other one from Fatrade.The Bets placed for this fight was Rs 6 lakhs.The dhirio was organized in a grand way with rope fencing all around so that the public should not come near the reddeas when fighting.The settings for the Guaa Police is said to be Rs.35000/- for the PI only.The fight was arranged in Cansaulim near the beach and geuss who the PI ofcourse its LOCHAA JIVBA DALVI.It was just a minute show in which Warren lost his Rs 6 lakhs,no problem, we all know where the money come from.
Anand Desai Mopa
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
We have to do what is best for Goa, The Alemao pigs of Varca can entertain us all by starting a their own "battle of the pigs".
Bond, Joa Bond.
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
One suggestion, stop worrying about animals as there are more people die in India then animal. Second suggestion I think India should stop sending boxing team in Olympic.
Shyam Sawant
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Well said Vicente, I second you on that. The poor animal cannot express the pain it undergoes. Like us human beings it cannot talk and tell the extent of pain it undergoes. Therefore we must pity all the animals involved in any animal fight. Vicente you are perfectly correct.
Vicente E. Do Rego
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Whatever may be the comments, as animal right activist I am totally against the Bull Fights (Dhirio) and we people enjoy the most and that too at the cost of suffering of hepless animals. Do somebody justify me, animal is put to fight and bleeds through eyes and neck and that leads to death sometime?. How can a winner and owner of this fight justify his winning prize when his pet animal is suffering in pain and agony?
Diogo Fichardo
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Let Goans decide how best to legalize Bullfights with proper guidelines in place. There is cruelty to working animals in many parts of India, that are subsidized by the government.
Salvador Seraulim
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Bull fights are taking place all over the world, which had been a tradition in Goa too, There are parts of India where bullfights are held. In Goa fighting bulls are treated better then European, African and Asian Bull,. Some Goans treat the bulls better then their own family members.I agree with goa365 "There has to be certain program or certain law or guidelines to have bullfights".
goa365
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Banning bullfight means end of story.There will be more illegal bullfights in goa and also good money for police. As far as this report is concerned horse racing is also illegal cause horse is also kept in one chamber for long time and mercifully beaten will racing. There are so many cruelty to animals in so many ways.There has to be certain program or certain law or guidelines to have bullfights.
N.Fernandes-London
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
I am quite positive that no Goan will object to a "DHIRIO" of the 40 BULL-shitters that are in the ring or who are herded in the Legislature at Campal -Porvorim.
The winner could always be given a prize of a date with Valanka Alemao,who is a very dis-proportionately rich & an eligible spinster or, be her co- guest at an innagural ceremony, at one of the most useless,daft & pointless of functions.
While visiting a Goan village or taking a lazy walk along the beach you might witness two well built buffaloes locking their horns. These bulls are maintaining the age old tradition of bull fighting or ‘Dhirio’ in Goa. One of the most popular and traditional entertainment sports in Goa is the Dhirio. These actually took place in the earlier times as a pass time for the farmers. They used to rear cattle and often used to select the strongest bull to fight. This bull is normally taken care of by its master and prepared for the fight during the bull fighting season.
Dhirio normally takes place during the winter season between the months of November and May. Dhirio is illegal in India. However, the villagers still take a lot of pride and pleasure in bull fighting and hence they arrange this fight. The bulls usually fight on the fields which are outside the village limits. Dhirio or bull fighting takes place between two strong bulls. The battle is declared over as soon as one of them gets injured badly and is defeated by the other one. Over 200-300 people normally gather to watch the match. They also bet money on the bulls and at times the stakes are really incredibly high. You can also visit one if you reach there during the Dhirio season from your Goa hotel.
Dhirio can be a little dangerous because there is no protection for the spectators due to the lack of fences or walls separating the bulls from the people watching the fight. They stand in a circle watching the bulls locking horns. Hence, one must be careful while watching the fight. The bulls are in fact prepared well in advance for the fight. They are taken for regular exercise including running on the beach. Regular medical examinations are also a part of the preparation. The bulls are named after eminent wrestlers so that they display strength parallel to them. Some of the most popular bull fights take place in the village of Benaulim.
Before Dhirio was declared illegal, eminent politicians used to grace the fights. The danger included in the game with the raging bull makes it more attractive to people watching it. The fight used to be announced on moving vehicles and local newspapers. During the fight you could also hear loud music being played. The fights used to very high on entertainment quotient earlier with all this and huge crowd. However, presently it is organized without such pomp and show. They are maintained as part of the Goa tradition.
South Goa has always been the center of Dhirio and villages like Santa Cruz, Taleigo and Caranzalem still organize such fights. Arrive at any of these villages from hotels in Goa and you will come to know of a fight being organized in 30 minutes.
To say it's a Tradition in GOA where 2 owner's of their bull get thier bull's bet alot of money on thier bulls and set a fight(DHIRI) between them and who ever wins in meaning suppose the bull turns around or runs away from the fight is a loser and the running bull bull behind him or just waited on the fight spot is the winner so futher information will be set later on........
It doesnt pay to abe a matador in goa. Here, bullfights are between two bulls, no matador needed. The fighting season starts around early October and lasts till May. The most popular locations are in one of the villages around Panjim like Taleigao (the most famous fights are held here), Santa Cruz or Caranzalem. They are also held near and around Margao in south Goa at the villages of Velsao and Benaulim. The fights usually begin around 4 pm, after siesta to the sound of taped Konkani music.
The very basis of bullfights is to inflict pain cause as much hurt and fury as possible during the fight, without which the duel cannot provide excitement to the spectators and arouse their animal instincts. From times immemorial humans have derived pleasures from sports that are brutal and bloody. Only humans organize and enjoy such senseless sports. Fortunately times have changed and now we have social and cultural organizations with educated minds, who strongly object to such cruel and inhuman activities.
Goa has legalized bull fighting 12 years after it was banned in the former Portuguese colony, last month the Goa legislative assembly passed an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to make an exception for Goa's traditional bull fights, or "dhirio". But organizers of bull fights must ensure the bull fights are conducted properly and safely for both animals and spectators. Although the Supreme court of India had banned the game 12 years ago, the sport continued illegally and its popularity has never waned, leading to frequent police raids upon illegal bull fights arenas, arrests of bull owners and confiscation of animals.
India took back Goa by force in 1961 after a 450-year colonial rule by Portugal.
eirs of the Portuguese in the Indian state of Goa do not want to accept a ban on the ancient tradition – bullfights, which was imposed by the authorities of the country four years ago. Local residents say that more than half the population in some way connected with this business, outlawed. At dawn on the sandy beach in the south of Colva state solemnly to walk a "Hero." From the outside it looks like walking the dog – collar on the neck of the mighty, and instead of a leash – a thick rope. Giant dark-colored agate, thrown on the back horn, obediently trots beside his master along the edge of the surf, and welcome the owners of small beach tavernas raskochegarivayuschih your kitchen. This bull is already famous for his victories by putting in the history of the ancient tradition of record – a fight that lasted a half hour. Despite the official ban bullfights continue – now underground. "We will never put up with a ban on bull fighting. There, in New Delhi, decided it was bloody and brutal fun. Spanish bullfighting – that's really really atrocity, when a man kills an animal. And everything here is true – a bull against bull, their forces are equal , "- says Rodriguez, owner of a pair of fighting bulls. Fans of fighting, argue that the bulls will never fight to the death – the one who feels weaker, retreating, leaving the battlefield, where it is waiting for assistance to veterinarians. To separate fighting bulls as possible. The authorities, of course, does not cost anything to cover the noisy spectacle of red-handed, but, first, the Portuguese themselves the heirs of glory, and, secondly, are satisfied with monetary reward for his silence. Residents of Goa love to emphasize their uniqueness and difference from others. The smallest Indian state was a Portuguese colony and become one of the states in India only in 1987. "The heirs of the colonizers' consider themselves largely by Europeans. Most of the people of this beach paradise are Christians. And the most common surnames – Rodriguez and Fernandez. "This is a great injustice, that Delhi has forbidden us to bullfights. And if we do not allow them to wear a sari?" – Asks the young waiter, shake lassi – a drink, a mixture of yogurt with fruit. All the local politicians who intend to win the hearts of his voters, promising to overturn the ban on fighting, but they have little trust – Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Government in power. In the south many tourists uninhabited desert fields, which are improvised arenas. "The battle, no one knows in advance. Even those who hold the bulls. At six in the morning you get a call on a mobile phone, and I tell you – come in half an hour in the specified location. Collected is usually one or two thousand spectators," – says Michael, the owner " Africans "who received his nickname in black. The entrance ticket costs 50 rupees – a little more than a dollar. Effective tote. The guy thinks his two-year game-bull-and-coming, bring him far more revenue than the content of the beach tavernas. "The main bull – head and horns are not important. My bull with a running start so easily sweep away this post" – proudly patting the guy on the wooden pillar on which rests his entire body of a beach restaurant. Another five friends together to fund this project – to raise, educate and feed the fighters weighing up to a ton is not easy. About seven wage workers caring for the animals, which must be at least twice a day to walk to keep fit. Gladiator Diet cattle too costly – than the usual fodder of untreated corn and rice, it requires delicacy – nuts, fruits and even flowers. And every day – the oil body massage and skin. "Bulls – very good pets, they are never touched by his master, and without understanding the words of his team, looking into his eyes. Well, what people are killed during a bull fight – it's their own stupidity. They all want to go to fighting bulls right close, "- said Suresh, one of the fans of bull fighting. His relatives also kept betta bull, though he admits that he prefers the old fun football. "And the bulls are really good. They just can not stand another bull around, and still hate the screams, whistles and the smell of blood. That's when they really become furious," – adds Suresh. His sympathies clearly on the side of the bulls, not spectators. All life is the envy of combat bull, covered with glory. He was groomed, nurtured, and dressed in ceremonial clothing before the fight. Well, if six or seven fights in a row, he lost, the owners put a cross on it. "In this case, let the bull on the steak, and all who knew him, crying" – sadly concludes Rodriguez.
PETA criticises legalisation of bullfights in Goa
The Bill to allow bullfight is a breach of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, PETA says
Submitted on 04/22/2009 - 13:15:16 PM
Panaji: The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has criticised the Government of Goa decision to legalise bullfighting in the state.
In its petition to Goa Speaker Pratapsing Rane and Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, PETA has said that the amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act defeats the purpose for which it was created in the first place, reports IANS
"The amendment to the Act contravenes the very purpose and object of the PCA, which is to prevent the infliction of pain and suffering on animals," PETA said in it petition.
"Animals who are forced to fight often incur fatal injuries. Not only are these incidents illegal, they are also completely unforgiving and inhumane," the petition further said adding that such organised fights cause damage to the animals' health and can result in accidents involving human spectators as well.
The petition signed by PETA's Chief Functionary Anuradha Sawhney also states that the controversial amendment passed by the Goa Legislative Assembly during the last budget session encourages violation of the fundamental duty to have compassion towards all living creatures, as enshrined in 51(A)(G) of the Indian Constitution.
Sawhney has also ridiculed the attempts made by the bullfighting lobby in Goa to create a myth of tradition around the blood-sport.
"We beseech you to use your office to stop such unnecessary and cruel acts from taking place and to be the voice of the hundreds of animals who are forced into these fights in the name of tradition," the petition states.
Legislator Reginaldo Lourenco of the ruling Congress party had introduced the private member's bill in the legislative assembly in March.
It was passed with the support of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
TNN Dec 5, 2009, 04.37am IST
NEW DELHI: South Goa member of Parliament (MP) Francisco Sardinha brought up the issue of lifting the ban on bullfights through his private members' bill in the Lok Sabha on Friday.
As for the criticism of gambling and betting, which may be associated with bullfighting, Sardinha said, "No sport is free from this menace... there are cases of match-fixing in cricket."
Bullfights are popular in Goa, but were banned by the Supreme Court in 1997.
People for Animals (PFA), an animal welfare NGO, which ensured that bull fights were banned through High Court order years ago, has welcomed the decision of Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) to ban use of bulls as performing animals.
The notification issued by Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) dated July 11, 2011 has listed bulls among six species of animals who cannot be used as a performing animals under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The notification also bans use of bears, monkeys, tigers, panthers and lions as animals that should not be trained or exhibited as performing animals.
Welcoming the decision, PFA president Norma Alvares has said, “the notification has proved that what we were fighting for years ago was indeed right and these animals needed protection.”
“It was we who placed the facts before High Court that bull fights in Goa is basically cruelty of animals and violation of the Act,” Alvares said.
The Bombay High Court at Goa in a petition filed by People for Animals (PFA) had passed the judgment in 1996 stating that, ‘it is necessary to issue directions to take all the steps to give full effect to the provisions contained in the said act and thereby to prevent cruelty to animals, prohibiting bull fights and all other fights of like nature involving animals including birds which can cause injuries and cruelty to the animals’.
The judgment passed by division bench comprising of Justices R K Batta and R M S Khandeparkar also stated that ‘The facts brought on record also show that these bull fights are not only blessed by politicians but by the police officers of the rank of DySP...There appears to be either lack of courage or willful negligence on the part of the state government’.
Bull fights, which is a popular sport in the coastal belt, was banned through a High Court order in 1996 there were several attempts by politicians to revive them.
Goa State Legislative assembly in May 2009 had moved a bill to legalise bullfighting in the state. But it did not receive Governor’s assent after environmentalists protested against it. The letters were also written to President of India requesting not to give assent to the bill.
The issue attained political importance during Parliamentary election when Congress Candidate Francisco Sardinha assured to move a bill in the Parliament, regarding bullfights, if he was voted to power.
Sardinha in 2009 had moved an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act which if passed would legalise bull fighting in Goa. Congress Parliamentarian had to withdraw the legislation after then Minister for Environment and Forest Jayram Ramesh and others opposed it.
The minister had said that besides cruelty to animals, heavy gambling and betting takes place during such fights. He had said that such traditions need not be continued especially when it is seen that they are not in consonance with right thinking.
Bullfighting saved from the sword as Spain rules it is an artistic discipline
Socialist government says ministry of culture will be responsible for
development and protection of controversial sport
The debate over bullfighting has been reignited in Spain after the
government recognised the spectacle as "an artistic discipline and
cultural product", delighting enthusiasts but outraging animal rights
campaigners.
Prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero's socialist government
announced that the ministry of culture will from now on be responsible
for the "development and protection" of bullfighting, which previously
fell within the remit of the interior ministry.
The move follows pressure from bullfighting organisations keen to
protect their livelihood following a controversial vote to ban
bullfighting in the Catalonia region last year.
The ministry of culture said in a statement: "As it is understood that
bullfighting is an artistic discipline and a cultural product, it was
considered that the ministry of culture was the correct place for its
development and protection."
Supporters, who see bullfighting as an integral part of Spain's
cultural identity, hope the announcement is a step towards protecting
the tradition from further regional bans.
Juan Diego, a matador speaking for the Bullfighters Union, welcomed
the announcement as necessary "for the protection and guardianship of
bullfighting", describing the sport as "a symbol of Spanish cultural
heritage that shapes the national identity".
The change was backed by the conservative Popular party (PP), in
opposition but favourite to win power in the general election on 20
November.
Miguel Cid Cebrián, chairman of the Parliamentary Bullfighting
Association, said he hoped the PP would provide legal protection for
bullfighting as a special "cultural interest" if it takes power, in
order to stop other regions outlawing the tradition.
Last year the regional government in Madrid announced it was awarding
bullfighting legal protection locally, because of its cultural
importance.
Opponents, who describe the practice as a barbaric bloodsport, accused
the government of abandoning a commitment to animal rights.
Silvia Barquero, spokeswoman for Pacma, an anti-bullfighting political
party, told newspaper Público the decision to switch responsibility
for bullfighting to the ministry of culture was "complete nonsense ...
a measure which sends us back to the Middle Ages".
Animal rights campaigners say bullfighting only survives because it is
subsidised by the Spanish taxpayer. Attendances are falling, its
appeal has faded among younger Spaniards and the industry has been hit
by the economic crisis. The number of bullfights taking place at local
fiestas has diminished as spending cuts have been enforced.
The Catalan regional government voted to ban bullfighting in the
northeastern region last July, by 68 votes to 55, with nine
abstentions, on the grounds it is cruel and outdated. The vote was
held after campaign group Prou! (Enough! in Catalan) collected 180,000
signatures in favour of a ban.
Anti-bullfighting organisations hope the Catalan example will be
copied in some of Spain's 16 other autonomous communities.
Critics of the ban said it was motivated more by Catalan nationalism
and a desire to assure political independence from Madrid than by a
genuine desire to outlaw the tradition.
The ban, which will come into effect next January and will not be
affected by Friday's decision, will be the first to be introduced in
mainland Spain. The Canary Islands outlawed bullfighting in 1991.
A poll last year for the newspaper El País found 60% of Spaniards did
not enjoy bullfighting, but 57% disagreed with the ban in Catalonia
Panaji, April 1 (IANS) Blood glistens again in the sunlight as specially-bred and reared fighter bulls take on one another openly once more, following the legalising of bullfighting in Goa. Now, without fearing the law, spectators can egg on the animals in the local form of bullfighting called dhirio, which has its parallel only in South Korea.
Panaji, April 1 (IANS) Blood glistens again in the sunlight as specially-bred and reared fighter bulls take on one another openly once more, following the legalising of bullfighting in Goa. Now, without fearing the law, spectators can egg on the animals in the local form of bullfighting called dhirio, which has its parallel only in South Korea.
After the Supreme Court banned the sport in 1998, dhirios have been fly-by-night affairs often broken up by the police. But the state legislature's recent decision to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, legalising bullfighting in Goa, may just give renewed life to a sport that was once rivalled only by football in terms of popularity.
A typical dhirio involves two specially reared fighting bulls, head-butting each other until one scampers away from the ring, which is lined by thousands of baying spectators, several of whom gamble on the outcome. Large sums of money change hands.
In Goa, a bull fights another bull rather than a matador as in Spain. The sport here is similar to one in South Korea, called Ch'ongdo, which has been held for over 1,000 years.
'Bullfights used to be held after church feasts in the 1960s,' recalls Flaviano Dias, a septuagenarian freedom fighter.
However, with the ban in place, dhirios were more or less relegated from a public spectacle to a fly-by-night event.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (South) S.N. Sawant said that on an average, 20 cases were booked annually against dhirio organisers in his subdivision when the sport was banned.
'Organisers of these fights were fined a few hundred rupees for the first offence,' Sawant told IANS.
The fines were a pittance compared to the amount of money changing hands on bets. 'The reason these bullfights occurred even during the ban are the rural betting syndicates that bet lakhs (hundreds of thousands) on the bulls,' a former sarpanch and an avid bullfighting aficionado told IANS.
'An average bullfight sees betting to the tune Rs.5 lakh (Rs.500,000). Each fighting circus has at least four to six bulls, which means two or three fights,' another bullfight regular said.
'Raising the bull involves a lot of money considering their rich diet. On an average, we spend from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1 lakh (Rs.100,000) on the animal, till the time it is three to four years old and ready to step into the ring,' said a bull owner from the coastal village of Colva.
Vice chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Lyndon Monteiro told IANS: 'Dhirio is a traditional sport and it will definitely encourage tourism.'
Padma shree awardee advocate Norma Alvares, whose constant efforts had resulted in the ban on dhirios in the first place, said that the blood-sport was a clear violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. 'It's an offence for anyone to incite an animal to fight with another or to organise an animal fight,' she said.
(Mayabhushan Nagvenkar can be contacted at mayabhushan@gmail.com)
But this is Goa at the end of the century. And the bullfight here is one in which the bulls fight one another. When there is bloodshed, it is not caused by an elegant matador, sequinned and rakish, but by a pair of horns filed and sharpened down to a lance point.
There are no fences or barricades here. Bullfights are usually held in an old rice field just outside a village, and the crowd -- whose complex Sunday lunches quickly become a liability when it's time to get out of the way of an unreasonable animal -- provides the enclosure. They do reluctantly put up the odd rickety bamboo fence to provide token protection for a visiting VIP, but everyone in the crowd knows that a few sticks of bamboo will do absolutely nothing to halt half a ton of charging bull.
Fighting bulls bear interesting names in Goa, and bout cards make slightly bizarre reading. Alibaba vs. Second Krishna. Brazil vs. Mad Max. Sea Harrier vs. Kingofsouth.
The animals are bred and trained to fight, and later retire as studs. Although trainers traditionally do not breathe a word about their ward's regimen and habits, the essence of bringing up a fighting bull is a carefully monitored diet, supplemented by enough vitamins and minerals to supply a small school. Late at night, in the tavernas around the village square, when feni -- that clear and dangerous liquor distilled from the cashew apple -- has loosened an incautious tongue or two, exotica like sardines and molasses are mentioned, as are puréed jackfruit and dried figs. But nothing's certain: what's said during these long and bibulous village nights, especially in deepest south Goa, vanishes like strange dreams, especially on the morning of a fight.
In Konkani, the local tongue, the fight is called dhirio. There is, of course, heavy betting, which is why the fights are advertised on the sports pages of the local daily papers. The bookies are influential enough to arrange matters so that the opening bout of the season is almost always attended by the nearest convenient dignitary. This past season, both the chief minister of Goa and the Portuguese consul general obliged. The bulls, I am told, did not charge them.
The morning of a fight, pickup vans are driven around the local villages, with banners fluttering, music blaring, and incomprehensible announcements booming out through election-rally-sized speakers. The pickup van is likely to be carrying one of the prize contestants, red-sashed and outraged at being made a spectacle of. It adds to the bull's already bad temper, and gets the betting going.
Large sums are involved: in some cases, allowing for long enough odds, 20,000 rupees (about $500) has been won on a single fight. This is a scale of betting that has naturally led to allegations of fixed fights and even the occasional nobbling of a prize bull. After a particularly questionable defeat, when post-mortems are being conducted in the bars, tempers run foul. Late into such nights, there is sometimes blood spilled that is no longer a bull's.
Before a fight, a trainer gets his animal down on its knees for as long as possible, keeping up a stream of chatter and patting it all the while. This apparently primes the bull, who is led out to the field and then strenuously encouraged to kneel again. Some bulls, who seem to respond to their trainers' words the way a hunting dog does, will comply. Others won't. It is only the very confident trainers who squat right there beside their charges, now haranguing them, building up the bulls' tempers and doing this, incredibly, with a hand clamped around the bulls' gonads. There is no dearth of opinion on this extraordinary tactic: some old-timers insist it tells the bull who the boss is and gives the trainer a degree of control he cannot otherwise hope to achieve. Others say the hand is there to provide a final infuriating squeeze, just as the other bull gets within snorting range.
At a recent fight in the village of Caranzalem, a strapping bull named Super Fighter decided he didn't like dhirios, crowds, and other bulls, and took off from the field, chased by a certain Johnny Baba, whom he was scheduled to fight. Instead of heading for the open road, though, Super Fighter barreled down a village path, which in Goa is full of twists and turns, overhanging thatch, and fish drying out in the sun. Fearful of the potential collateral damage, the organizers and trainers of both animals sped off in pursuit. As the fearful ruckus receded, a German camera crew that had arrived to film the affair looked around, puzzled: Was this at all about bullfighting?
The crowd knew better. Two minutes later Super Fighter reappeared and some perversion led him to charge back through the throng and into the rice field where the match was to be held. Johnny Baba was right behind him.
Super Fighter spun round to charge a very surprised Johnny Baba, who didn't stop to argue but instead shot away through the crowd and up one of the bunds that bordered the field. Johnny Baba toppled at least seven men in his mad rush, and on the way took a sideswipe at the German crew's video stand, sending a tripod and camera flying. Once he reached the road, Johnny Baba quickly galloped off toward the city of Panjim. Following close behind him, Super Fighter turned his head to keep track of his enemy but neglected to turn his body and crashed into the row of scooters parked along the road. He knocked them flat and then blundered away toward the city.
The crowd loved it and howled with laughter -- at the bulls but also at the Germans, who had hastily piled into their van in the hope of getting at least some footage of a maddened Goan bull.
Sometimes you are in the presence of a truly incorrigible mature bull, and the atmosphere quickly becomes tense. The betting slips are laid down, and the soda bottles are forgotten. Here and there, a few quick slugs of feni go down. Stepping deliberately through the crowd, the confident old fighting bulls don't really need to be led. Tense and trembling with anticipation, they nevertheless contain their anger for the field, their fast-talking trainers hurrying alongside toward the middle. As the bull sizes up its opponent, the crowd settles down into a contented murmuring, knowing a real contest is at hand.
These are bulls who are sure of their staying power and their ability to strike, who know how to hook viciously around and through the tough folds of skin on their opponent's necks, who know how to make the blood flow and weaken their foe, and who then plant their massive hooves into the red Goan soil and slash at the belly. These are the calculating warriors -- fewer and fewer are bred and fight nowadays -- and it still sends shivers down the spines of the old-timers when they hear of the steady-eyed fighting bulls of Goa.
Bull fight is a very popular game in Goa that takes place between two bulls. It is known as 'Dhirio' in Konkani and is a simple game in which the bulls fight one another. The bulls are bred and trained to fight and the game attracts huge crowds. It usually takes place in an open area with a bamboo fence created outside the Village.
Goan bull fighting involves huge betting of money done by the owner on their bulls. The people in the crowd back their favourites and a lot of money is made or lost in one game. The game involves a lot of excitement and sometimes one can witness some frantic sprinting and even bloodshed at times.
Bullfighting was banned in Goa in 1998. Before the ban, some Goa politicians graced bullfights as chief guests and even owned some fighter bulls. Announcements could be made in local newspapers or over a loudspeaker on a vehicle moving through the village and the bullfights would be accompanied by loud blaring Music. It was a lot ofEntertainment for the people of Goa and would often be organized by the cash-rich Goans.
Today however some illegal bull fight games still take place at some parts in Goa and people are informed about it in about 30 minutes. The game is very famous especially in the South of Goa and is also sometimes witnessed in the villages like Caranzalem, Santa Cruz, Taleigao and many more.
PANJIM: With the Environment Ministry banning use of bulls as performing animals, several traditional games, including bull-fights in Goa, will now become a part of history.
In fact, bull-fights in the state have already been banned by the Bombay High Court in 1996, even though they are illegally being held at some places in the state.
The MoEF notification will also cease political attempts in Goa to revive bull fights, which are enjoyed in the coastal taluka of Salcette.
Animal rights organisation Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO) has welcomed the move.
MoEF issued the notification on July 11, 2011, which added bull in the list of animals including bear, monkey, tiger, panther and lion that cannot be trained or used as a performing animal under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960.
Bull-fights were popular in Goa's coastal belt before they were banned by the Bombay High Court in 1996. The court had cited cruelty to animals as the reason for the ban. However, bull fights continue to be held at some places illegally.
Goa Legislative Assembly had moved a Bill in 2009 to legalise bull fights, which could not get assent of the Governor.
MP Fransisco Sardinha had also tried to move an amendment in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act in 2009 to legalise bull fighting. But the attempt was opposed by many including former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh.
The recent notification, however, is supported by FIAPO, which is an umbrella organisation of animal welfare groups in India. "Bulls now cannot be made to perform in events like Jallikattu and Rekla races in south India and the Dhirio of Goa and in any form of cinematography," said Dr Chinny Krishna, the chairman of FIAPO.
He said this is a landmark development for bulls and we compliment the ministry for this initiative. "Hundreds of bulls are tortured in barbaric events like Jallikattu and Rekla races in south India and the Dhirio of Goa. With this notification, bulls are to be considered performing animals for the purpose of such events," he said.
FIAPO has said that bulls in various parts of the country are routinely exploited and abused for races and other forms of performance. "They are made to take part in cruel cart races in villages and towns across the country. Most of these races typically inflict pain and suffering on the animals," Krishna said.
He said FIAPO and its member organisations have often received complaints that during these races, the cart drivers poke the animals in their sensitive parts with nails and sticks, whip them mercilessly and even drug them with alcohol, all in order to make them run faster than the other. "Every year, in certain districts of Tamil Nadu, people chase and taunt bulls for fun in a cruel "game" called Jallikattu. During these events, large groups of men and boys throw themselves on top of a bull in an effort to 'tame' him and grab a prize," he said. – PTI
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Comments (9)
CHICARITO
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Banning "DHIRIO" will not help much it is only going to help the Guaa Police for extra income through the settings (the bull owners or the social workers agree with the police to pay them for the fight to take place in their juridiction certain percentage of the bets they play on the fights.)Last month there was a Dhirio between two reddeas(he buffoloes)owners hailing from varca Waren Alemao and his boys and other one from Fatrade.The Bets placed for this fight was Rs 6 lakhs.The dhirio was organized in a grand way with rope fencing all around so that the public should not come near the reddeas when fighting.The settings for the Guaa Police is said to be Rs.35000/- for the PI only.The fight was arranged in Cansaulim near the beach and geuss who the PI ofcourse its LOCHAA JIVBA DALVI.It was just a minute show in which Warren lost his Rs 6 lakhs,no problem, we all know where the money come from.
Anand Desai Mopa
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
We have to do what is best for Goa, The Alemao pigs of Varca can entertain us all by starting a their own "battle of the pigs".
Bond, Joa Bond.
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
One suggestion, stop worrying about animals as there are more people die in India then animal. Second suggestion I think India should stop sending boxing team in Olympic.
Shyam Sawant
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Well said Vicente, I second you on that. The poor animal cannot express the pain it undergoes. Like us human beings it cannot talk and tell the extent of pain it undergoes. Therefore we must pity all the animals involved in any animal fight. Vicente you are perfectly correct.
Vicente E. Do Rego
Thursday - Aug 4, 2011
Whatever may be the comments, as animal right activist I am totally against the Bull Fights (Dhirio) and we people enjoy the most and that too at the cost of suffering of hepless animals. Do somebody justify me, animal is put to fight and bleeds through eyes and neck and that leads to death sometime?. How can a winner and owner of this fight justify his winning prize when his pet animal is suffering in pain and agony?
Diogo Fichardo
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Let Goans decide how best to legalize Bullfights with proper guidelines in place. There is cruelty to working animals in many parts of India, that are subsidized by the government.
Salvador Seraulim
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Bull fights are taking place all over the world, which had been a tradition in Goa too, There are parts of India where bullfights are held. In Goa fighting bulls are treated better then European, African and Asian Bull,. Some Goans treat the bulls better then their own family members.I agree with goa365 "There has to be certain program or certain law or guidelines to have bullfights".
goa365
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
Banning bullfight means end of story.There will be more illegal bullfights in goa and also good money for police. As far as this report is concerned horse racing is also illegal cause horse is also kept in one chamber for long time and mercifully beaten will racing. There are so many cruelty to animals in so many ways.There has to be certain program or certain law or guidelines to have bullfights.
N.Fernandes-London
Wednesday - Aug 3, 2011
I am quite positive that no Goan will object to a "DHIRIO" of the 40 BULL-shitters that are in the ring or who are herded in the Legislature at Campal -Porvorim.
The winner could always be given a prize of a date with Valanka Alemao,who is a very dis-proportionately rich & an eligible spinster or, be her co- guest at an innagural ceremony, at one of the most useless,daft & pointless of functions.
While visiting a Goan village or taking a lazy walk along the beach you might witness two well built buffaloes locking their horns. These bulls are maintaining the age old tradition of bull fighting or ‘Dhirio’ in Goa. One of the most popular and traditional entertainment sports in Goa is the Dhirio. These actually took place in the earlier times as a pass time for the farmers. They used to rear cattle and often used to select the strongest bull to fight. This bull is normally taken care of by its master and prepared for the fight during the bull fighting season.
Dhirio normally takes place during the winter season between the months of November and May. Dhirio is illegal in India. However, the villagers still take a lot of pride and pleasure in bull fighting and hence they arrange this fight. The bulls usually fight on the fields which are outside the village limits. Dhirio or bull fighting takes place between two strong bulls. The battle is declared over as soon as one of them gets injured badly and is defeated by the other one. Over 200-300 people normally gather to watch the match. They also bet money on the bulls and at times the stakes are really incredibly high. You can also visit one if you reach there during the Dhirio season from your Goa hotel.
Dhirio can be a little dangerous because there is no protection for the spectators due to the lack of fences or walls separating the bulls from the people watching the fight. They stand in a circle watching the bulls locking horns. Hence, one must be careful while watching the fight. The bulls are in fact prepared well in advance for the fight. They are taken for regular exercise including running on the beach. Regular medical examinations are also a part of the preparation. The bulls are named after eminent wrestlers so that they display strength parallel to them. Some of the most popular bull fights take place in the village of Benaulim.
Before Dhirio was declared illegal, eminent politicians used to grace the fights. The danger included in the game with the raging bull makes it more attractive to people watching it. The fight used to be announced on moving vehicles and local newspapers. During the fight you could also hear loud music being played. The fights used to very high on entertainment quotient earlier with all this and huge crowd. However, presently it is organized without such pomp and show. They are maintained as part of the Goa tradition.
South Goa has always been the center of Dhirio and villages like Santa Cruz, Taleigo and Caranzalem still organize such fights. Arrive at any of these villages from hotels in Goa and you will come to know of a fight being organized in 30 minutes.
To say it's a Tradition in GOA where 2 owner's of their bull get thier bull's bet alot of money on thier bulls and set a fight(DHIRI) between them and who ever wins in meaning suppose the bull turns around or runs away from the fight is a loser and the running bull bull behind him or just waited on the fight spot is the winner so futher information will be set later on........
It doesnt pay to abe a matador in goa. Here, bullfights are between two bulls, no matador needed. The fighting season starts around early October and lasts till May. The most popular locations are in one of the villages around Panjim like Taleigao (the most famous fights are held here), Santa Cruz or Caranzalem. They are also held near and around Margao in south Goa at the villages of Velsao and Benaulim. The fights usually begin around 4 pm, after siesta to the sound of taped Konkani music.
The very basis of bullfights is to inflict pain cause as much hurt and fury as possible during the fight, without which the duel cannot provide excitement to the spectators and arouse their animal instincts. From times immemorial humans have derived pleasures from sports that are brutal and bloody. Only humans organize and enjoy such senseless sports. Fortunately times have changed and now we have social and cultural organizations with educated minds, who strongly object to such cruel and inhuman activities.
Goa has legalized bull fighting 12 years after it was banned in the former Portuguese colony, last month the Goa legislative assembly passed an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to make an exception for Goa's traditional bull fights, or "dhirio". But organizers of bull fights must ensure the bull fights are conducted properly and safely for both animals and spectators. Although the Supreme court of India had banned the game 12 years ago, the sport continued illegally and its popularity has never waned, leading to frequent police raids upon illegal bull fights arenas, arrests of bull owners and confiscation of animals.
India took back Goa by force in 1961 after a 450-year colonial rule by Portugal.
eirs of the Portuguese in the Indian state of Goa do not want to accept a ban on the ancient tradition – bullfights, which was imposed by the authorities of the country four years ago. Local residents say that more than half the population in some way connected with this business, outlawed. At dawn on the sandy beach in the south of Colva state solemnly to walk a "Hero." From the outside it looks like walking the dog – collar on the neck of the mighty, and instead of a leash – a thick rope. Giant dark-colored agate, thrown on the back horn, obediently trots beside his master along the edge of the surf, and welcome the owners of small beach tavernas raskochegarivayuschih your kitchen. This bull is already famous for his victories by putting in the history of the ancient tradition of record – a fight that lasted a half hour. Despite the official ban bullfights continue – now underground. "We will never put up with a ban on bull fighting. There, in New Delhi, decided it was bloody and brutal fun. Spanish bullfighting – that's really really atrocity, when a man kills an animal. And everything here is true – a bull against bull, their forces are equal , "- says Rodriguez, owner of a pair of fighting bulls. Fans of fighting, argue that the bulls will never fight to the death – the one who feels weaker, retreating, leaving the battlefield, where it is waiting for assistance to veterinarians. To separate fighting bulls as possible. The authorities, of course, does not cost anything to cover the noisy spectacle of red-handed, but, first, the Portuguese themselves the heirs of glory, and, secondly, are satisfied with monetary reward for his silence. Residents of Goa love to emphasize their uniqueness and difference from others. The smallest Indian state was a Portuguese colony and become one of the states in India only in 1987. "The heirs of the colonizers' consider themselves largely by Europeans. Most of the people of this beach paradise are Christians. And the most common surnames – Rodriguez and Fernandez. "This is a great injustice, that Delhi has forbidden us to bullfights. And if we do not allow them to wear a sari?" – Asks the young waiter, shake lassi – a drink, a mixture of yogurt with fruit. All the local politicians who intend to win the hearts of his voters, promising to overturn the ban on fighting, but they have little trust – Supreme Court upheld the decision of the Government in power. In the south many tourists uninhabited desert fields, which are improvised arenas. "The battle, no one knows in advance. Even those who hold the bulls. At six in the morning you get a call on a mobile phone, and I tell you – come in half an hour in the specified location. Collected is usually one or two thousand spectators," – says Michael, the owner " Africans "who received his nickname in black. The entrance ticket costs 50 rupees – a little more than a dollar. Effective tote. The guy thinks his two-year game-bull-and-coming, bring him far more revenue than the content of the beach tavernas. "The main bull – head and horns are not important. My bull with a running start so easily sweep away this post" – proudly patting the guy on the wooden pillar on which rests his entire body of a beach restaurant. Another five friends together to fund this project – to raise, educate and feed the fighters weighing up to a ton is not easy. About seven wage workers caring for the animals, which must be at least twice a day to walk to keep fit. Gladiator Diet cattle too costly – than the usual fodder of untreated corn and rice, it requires delicacy – nuts, fruits and even flowers. And every day – the oil body massage and skin. "Bulls – very good pets, they are never touched by his master, and without understanding the words of his team, looking into his eyes. Well, what people are killed during a bull fight – it's their own stupidity. They all want to go to fighting bulls right close, "- said Suresh, one of the fans of bull fighting. His relatives also kept betta bull, though he admits that he prefers the old fun football. "And the bulls are really good. They just can not stand another bull around, and still hate the screams, whistles and the smell of blood. That's when they really become furious," – adds Suresh. His sympathies clearly on the side of the bulls, not spectators. All life is the envy of combat bull, covered with glory. He was groomed, nurtured, and dressed in ceremonial clothing before the fight. Well, if six or seven fights in a row, he lost, the owners put a cross on it. "In this case, let the bull on the steak, and all who knew him, crying" – sadly concludes Rodriguez.
PETA criticises legalisation of bullfights in Goa
The Bill to allow bullfight is a breach of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, PETA says
Submitted on 04/22/2009 - 13:15:16 PM
Panaji: The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has criticised the Government of Goa decision to legalise bullfighting in the state.
In its petition to Goa Speaker Pratapsing Rane and Chief Minister Digambar Kamat, PETA has said that the amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act defeats the purpose for which it was created in the first place, reports IANS
"The amendment to the Act contravenes the very purpose and object of the PCA, which is to prevent the infliction of pain and suffering on animals," PETA said in it petition.
"Animals who are forced to fight often incur fatal injuries. Not only are these incidents illegal, they are also completely unforgiving and inhumane," the petition further said adding that such organised fights cause damage to the animals' health and can result in accidents involving human spectators as well.
The petition signed by PETA's Chief Functionary Anuradha Sawhney also states that the controversial amendment passed by the Goa Legislative Assembly during the last budget session encourages violation of the fundamental duty to have compassion towards all living creatures, as enshrined in 51(A)(G) of the Indian Constitution.
Sawhney has also ridiculed the attempts made by the bullfighting lobby in Goa to create a myth of tradition around the blood-sport.
"We beseech you to use your office to stop such unnecessary and cruel acts from taking place and to be the voice of the hundreds of animals who are forced into these fights in the name of tradition," the petition states.
Legislator Reginaldo Lourenco of the ruling Congress party had introduced the private member's bill in the legislative assembly in March.
It was passed with the support of the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
TNN Dec 5, 2009, 04.37am IST
NEW DELHI: South Goa member of Parliament (MP) Francisco Sardinha brought up the issue of lifting the ban on bullfights through his private members' bill in the Lok Sabha on Friday.
As for the criticism of gambling and betting, which may be associated with bullfighting, Sardinha said, "No sport is free from this menace... there are cases of match-fixing in cricket."
Bullfights are popular in Goa, but were banned by the Supreme Court in 1997.
People for Animals (PFA), an animal welfare NGO, which ensured that bull fights were banned through High Court order years ago, has welcomed the decision of Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) to ban use of bulls as performing animals.
The notification issued by Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) dated July 11, 2011 has listed bulls among six species of animals who cannot be used as a performing animals under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. The notification also bans use of bears, monkeys, tigers, panthers and lions as animals that should not be trained or exhibited as performing animals.
Welcoming the decision, PFA president Norma Alvares has said, “the notification has proved that what we were fighting for years ago was indeed right and these animals needed protection.”
“It was we who placed the facts before High Court that bull fights in Goa is basically cruelty of animals and violation of the Act,” Alvares said.
The Bombay High Court at Goa in a petition filed by People for Animals (PFA) had passed the judgment in 1996 stating that, ‘it is necessary to issue directions to take all the steps to give full effect to the provisions contained in the said act and thereby to prevent cruelty to animals, prohibiting bull fights and all other fights of like nature involving animals including birds which can cause injuries and cruelty to the animals’.
The judgment passed by division bench comprising of Justices R K Batta and R M S Khandeparkar also stated that ‘The facts brought on record also show that these bull fights are not only blessed by politicians but by the police officers of the rank of DySP...There appears to be either lack of courage or willful negligence on the part of the state government’.
Bull fights, which is a popular sport in the coastal belt, was banned through a High Court order in 1996 there were several attempts by politicians to revive them.
Goa State Legislative assembly in May 2009 had moved a bill to legalise bullfighting in the state. But it did not receive Governor’s assent after environmentalists protested against it. The letters were also written to President of India requesting not to give assent to the bill.
The issue attained political importance during Parliamentary election when Congress Candidate Francisco Sardinha assured to move a bill in the Parliament, regarding bullfights, if he was voted to power.
Sardinha in 2009 had moved an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act which if passed would legalise bull fighting in Goa. Congress Parliamentarian had to withdraw the legislation after then Minister for Environment and Forest Jayram Ramesh and others opposed it.
The minister had said that besides cruelty to animals, heavy gambling and betting takes place during such fights. He had said that such traditions need not be continued especially when it is seen that they are not in consonance with right thinking.
Bullfighting saved from the sword as Spain rules it is an artistic discipline
Socialist government says ministry of culture will be responsible for
development and protection of controversial sport
The debate over bullfighting has been reignited in Spain after the
government recognised the spectacle as "an artistic discipline and
cultural product", delighting enthusiasts but outraging animal rights
campaigners.
Prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero's socialist government
announced that the ministry of culture will from now on be responsible
for the "development and protection" of bullfighting, which previously
fell within the remit of the interior ministry.
The move follows pressure from bullfighting organisations keen to
protect their livelihood following a controversial vote to ban
bullfighting in the Catalonia region last year.
The ministry of culture said in a statement: "As it is understood that
bullfighting is an artistic discipline and a cultural product, it was
considered that the ministry of culture was the correct place for its
development and protection."
Supporters, who see bullfighting as an integral part of Spain's
cultural identity, hope the announcement is a step towards protecting
the tradition from further regional bans.
Juan Diego, a matador speaking for the Bullfighters Union, welcomed
the announcement as necessary "for the protection and guardianship of
bullfighting", describing the sport as "a symbol of Spanish cultural
heritage that shapes the national identity".
The change was backed by the conservative Popular party (PP), in
opposition but favourite to win power in the general election on 20
November.
Miguel Cid Cebrián, chairman of the Parliamentary Bullfighting
Association, said he hoped the PP would provide legal protection for
bullfighting as a special "cultural interest" if it takes power, in
order to stop other regions outlawing the tradition.
Last year the regional government in Madrid announced it was awarding
bullfighting legal protection locally, because of its cultural
importance.
Opponents, who describe the practice as a barbaric bloodsport, accused
the government of abandoning a commitment to animal rights.
Silvia Barquero, spokeswoman for Pacma, an anti-bullfighting political
party, told newspaper Público the decision to switch responsibility
for bullfighting to the ministry of culture was "complete nonsense ...
a measure which sends us back to the Middle Ages".
Animal rights campaigners say bullfighting only survives because it is
subsidised by the Spanish taxpayer. Attendances are falling, its
appeal has faded among younger Spaniards and the industry has been hit
by the economic crisis. The number of bullfights taking place at local
fiestas has diminished as spending cuts have been enforced.
The Catalan regional government voted to ban bullfighting in the
northeastern region last July, by 68 votes to 55, with nine
abstentions, on the grounds it is cruel and outdated. The vote was
held after campaign group Prou! (Enough! in Catalan) collected 180,000
signatures in favour of a ban.
Anti-bullfighting organisations hope the Catalan example will be
copied in some of Spain's 16 other autonomous communities.
Critics of the ban said it was motivated more by Catalan nationalism
and a desire to assure political independence from Madrid than by a
genuine desire to outlaw the tradition.
The ban, which will come into effect next January and will not be
affected by Friday's decision, will be the first to be introduced in
mainland Spain. The Canary Islands outlawed bullfighting in 1991.
A poll last year for the newspaper El País found 60% of Spaniards did
not enjoy bullfighting, but 57% disagreed with the ban in Catalonia
Panaji, April 1 (IANS) Blood glistens again in the sunlight as specially-bred and reared fighter bulls take on one another openly once more, following the legalising of bullfighting in Goa. Now, without fearing the law, spectators can egg on the animals in the local form of bullfighting called dhirio, which has its parallel only in South Korea.
Panaji, April 1 (IANS) Blood glistens again in the sunlight as specially-bred and reared fighter bulls take on one another openly once more, following the legalising of bullfighting in Goa. Now, without fearing the law, spectators can egg on the animals in the local form of bullfighting called dhirio, which has its parallel only in South Korea.
After the Supreme Court banned the sport in 1998, dhirios have been fly-by-night affairs often broken up by the police. But the state legislature's recent decision to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, legalising bullfighting in Goa, may just give renewed life to a sport that was once rivalled only by football in terms of popularity.
A typical dhirio involves two specially reared fighting bulls, head-butting each other until one scampers away from the ring, which is lined by thousands of baying spectators, several of whom gamble on the outcome. Large sums of money change hands.
In Goa, a bull fights another bull rather than a matador as in Spain. The sport here is similar to one in South Korea, called Ch'ongdo, which has been held for over 1,000 years.
'Bullfights used to be held after church feasts in the 1960s,' recalls Flaviano Dias, a septuagenarian freedom fighter.
However, with the ban in place, dhirios were more or less relegated from a public spectacle to a fly-by-night event.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (South) S.N. Sawant said that on an average, 20 cases were booked annually against dhirio organisers in his subdivision when the sport was banned.
'Organisers of these fights were fined a few hundred rupees for the first offence,' Sawant told IANS.
The fines were a pittance compared to the amount of money changing hands on bets. 'The reason these bullfights occurred even during the ban are the rural betting syndicates that bet lakhs (hundreds of thousands) on the bulls,' a former sarpanch and an avid bullfighting aficionado told IANS.
'An average bullfight sees betting to the tune Rs.5 lakh (Rs.500,000). Each fighting circus has at least four to six bulls, which means two or three fights,' another bullfight regular said.
'Raising the bull involves a lot of money considering their rich diet. On an average, we spend from Rs.50,000 to Rs.1 lakh (Rs.100,000) on the animal, till the time it is three to four years old and ready to step into the ring,' said a bull owner from the coastal village of Colva.
Vice chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Lyndon Monteiro told IANS: 'Dhirio is a traditional sport and it will definitely encourage tourism.'
Padma shree awardee advocate Norma Alvares, whose constant efforts had resulted in the ban on dhirios in the first place, said that the blood-sport was a clear violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. 'It's an offence for anyone to incite an animal to fight with another or to organise an animal fight,' she said.
(Mayabhushan Nagvenkar can be contacted at mayabhushan@gmail.com)
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