The Gauhati High Court has directed the Assam government to immediately halt buffalo fights, locally known as “Moh Juj,” and initiate penal action against organisers, a move that has drawn attention across Guwahati’s legal and civic circles. The interim order was issued during the hearing of a writ petition filed by PETA India.
The court made it clear that such events violate existing laws and judicial rulings, including provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
The Gauhati High Court has ordered an immediate stop to buffalo fights in Assam and directed authorities to take action against organisers, stating that such events violate animal cruelty laws and prior court rulings.
Gauhati High Court Issues Strict Directions
The order mandates:
- Immediate halt to all buffalo fights across Assam
- Penal action against the organisers of such events
- Enforcement until further court orders
The directive was issued by the Gauhati High Court, the principal judicial authority for Assam.
Case Filed Through the Guwahati Court
The matter reached the court through a petition filed by PETA India, which submitted:
- Photographic and video evidence of alleged cruelty
- Instances of buffalo fights held across districts in January
- Claims of violation of existing laws and court orders
Allegations of Animal Cruelty
During the hearing, the court was presented with material showing:
- Buffaloes with visible injuries
- Animals are being beaten and forced to fight
- Use of nose ropes to control animals
- A reported incident of a person being attacked by a buffalo
Legal Position Reiterated
The court emphasised:
- Buffalo fights are not permissible under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- Such events violate earlier Supreme Court guidelines
- Any attempt to organise them would be considered unlawful
Previous Gauhati HC Ruling Referenced
The petition also cited a December 2024 Gauhati High Court judgment, which:
- Struck down the state’s SOP allowing buffalo and bulbul bird fights
- Found it inconsistent with Supreme Court directives
Despite this, such events were reportedly conducted earlier this year.
Reaction and Implications
PETA India welcomed the order, stating that:
- The court has reinforced the need to protect animals from cruelty
- Such practices are incompatible with modern legal and ethical standards
Why This Matters for Guwahati
The development is significant for Guwahati because:
- The order originates from the Gauhati High Court
- It highlights the role of the judiciary in enforcing animal welfare laws
- It impacts cultural practices across Assam, including those followed by communities connected to the city
What Happens Next
- Further hearings will determine long-term legal outcomes
- Authorities are expected to enforce the ban immediately
- Action may be taken against organisers violating the order
Frequently Asked Questions
What has the Gauhati High Court ordered regarding buffalo fights?
The court has directed an immediate halt to buffalo fights and ordered penal action against organisers.
Why are buffalo fights banned?
They are considered a violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Supreme Court guidelines on animal welfare.