Daijiworld Media Network - Karkala (SP)

Karkala, Feb 16: A team of experts from Veterinary University in Bidar participated in the proceedings of Miyar Kambala near here on Sunday February 15 and noted down details of various aspects about how the buffalo race is organized.

The committee in general was of the opinion that those who want to save Kambala for the next generation should concentrate more on making it totally free of violence rather than trying to get immunity from rules by arguing in courts that buffaloes are not animals of race.

A team comprising experts from the university led by its dean, Vasant Shetty, came to Miyar to personally participate in Kambala and observe how it is held. The team has been formed to visit Kambalas and submit a report covering all aspects thereon to the government. In view of the fact that on behalf of Kambala organizers, the argument that buffaloes do not happen to be animals of race has been put forth before the courts to get an exemption and permission to continue to hold Kambala, this committee was formed to find out the truth.

The committee noted that buffaloes are required to only cover a pre-specified distance at Kambalas, and that these animals are never used for either exhibition or perform any acts. The committee feels that the Kambala, which had recently faced the threat of being permanently banned, can thrive if the aspect of non-violence is strictly followed.

The committee members added that they would be submitting a report about their findings and recommendations to the government, but refused to reveal anything else about the report.

In view of the prevailing confusion and controversy surrounding Kambala, ministry of law and animal husbandry headed by T B Jayachandra had asked a team of experts from the Veterinary University to take part in Kambala and submit a report thereof.