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.
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