New Delhi / Bengaluru, Jul 3 (Agencies): President Pranab Mukherjee has approved the promulgation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance, 2017, making it possible for kambala - a traditiional buffalo race - to be conducted, ANI reported.
Kambala races are organised in the Dakshin Kannada and Udupi districts of coastal Karnataka.
Along with jallikattu, the sport was banned by the Supreme Court in 2014 based on a petition filed by various animal rights organisations.
"In pursuance of the proviso to clause (1) of artcle 213 of the Constitution of India, the President of India hereby approves the promulgation of 'The Prevention of cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance, 2017' by the Governor of Karnataka," read the notification from President.
Kamabala supporters protested after the Tamil Nadu government moved an ordinance to lift the ban on jallikattu.
The Siddaramiah government in Karnataka then passed an ordinance to make kambala legal, and the bill was sent to President Mukherjee twice for his approval, OneIndia reported.
Welcoming the decision, chief minister Siddaramaiah tweeted, "We are happy Hon. @RashtrapatiBhvn has given assent to Ordinance on #Kambala passed by our State Legislature (sic)...Traditional sports like #Kambala that ensure continuance of native cattle breeds are a part of rich, diverse cultural ethos in Karnataka."
BJP state president B S Yeddyurappa too welcomed the move in a tweet.