Daijiworld Media Network – Margao

Margao, Jul 10: In a decisive move to clamp down on the resurgence of illegal bullfights, locally known as dhirio, South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus has constituted a special multi-disciplinary committee to monitor and intervene in such unlawful events across the district.

The newly formed panel comprises mamlatdars, police inspectors, veterinary officers, and representatives from animal welfare organisations, including the Dhyan Foundation and Shikeri Gaushala. The committee will operate under the jurisdiction of seven key police stations—Margao, Maina-Curtorim, Colva, Fatorda, Cuncolim, Verna, and Mormugao—all considered vulnerable zones for these clandestine animal fights.

According to the official order, all members of the task force are required to remain “alert and responsible for taking necessary and immediate actions during any reported or ongoing bullfight incident.” The collector has stressed on robust coordination and 24/7 readiness among the team members to respond swiftly, especially in areas previously flagged for such illegal gatherings.

The crackdown follows an earlier directive issued on June 17, wherein Cleetus ordered continuous surveillance and intelligence-based detection of suspected bullfight locations. The directive came in the wake of an incident in Colva, where an FIR was filed against bullfight organisers. During a recent high-level law and order meeting, the Collector highlighted the urgency of real-time intervention to prevent further violations.

In the absence of designated officers, the order mandates the appointment of link officers to ensure there is no gap in enforcement. This ensures that anti-dhirio measures are consistently implemented without interruption.

Though dhirio was officially banned in Goa in 1997, following a verdict by the Bombay High Court at Goa—and later upheld by the Supreme Court—the underground network of organisers continues to defy the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. The renewed enforcement drive is expected to send a strong message to offenders and help curb this illegal and inhumane practice.