Demand to recognise dhirios turned down

Animal Husbandry Minister Neelkanth Halarnkar in an Assembly reply to the demand made by Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo to legalise bullfights (dhirio) said there will be no official recognition to the sport in Goa.

Complaints have been filed by non-governmental organisations against cruelty to animals. In 2016, making a tourism pitch, late and former MLA Vishnu Wagh had very strongly advocated for legalising bullfights in the state. Now, Venzy Viegas of the Aam Aadmi Party is strongly rooting for dhirios and wants it to be declared as a Goan sport. Mandrem MLA Jeet Arolkar has also extended support.

The MLAs contend that once officially recognised and legalised, the sport will help the state generate revenue. However, animal lovers argue that the move will lead to the exploitation of animals.

In 1997, People for Animals, a non-governmental organization, petitioned the High Court against dhirios. It contended that during bullfights there is no human control over the animals, who are injured and undergo unwanted physical trauma.

The animal welfare organisation also brought to light the danger of the raging bulls going out of control and injuring spectators. It highlighted the betting angle, which is the primary reason for organising bullfights.

The sport is banned in Goa as per an order of the court.