Guwahati, 12th January: On the occasion of Bhogali Bihu, the Assam state government has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for traditional buffalo and bulbuli bird fights, taking special precautions to prevent animal cruelty.
As per the SOPs, district administrations are directed to ensure careful observation of all rules and regulations, including the quality of work rules. Organizing committees will be permitted based on applications received from organizers, with approval granted by respective district deputy commissioners.
Key guidelines outlined in the SOPs include:
- Buffalo fights allowed only in places with a 25-year history of holding such fights. Permitted for a limited period from January 15 to January 25, 2024.
- Buffalo combat scheduled between 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Animal husbandry teams stationed for emergency medical care during buffalo fights, with ambulances on standby.
- Organizers to provide food, water, and sunshades for buffaloes.
- Videography of the event with proper documentation.
- Barricades, no sharp weapons during combat, and no intoxicating substances allowed.
- Written undertaking from organizers to follow SOP guidelines for approval.
SOPs for bulbuli bird fights include arrangements for safety, food, and water, and strict adherence to the rules during the combat. Violations may result in a five-year ban on buffalo and bulbuli bird battles.