Dhirio, the traditional bullfighting sport of Goa, was banned by the Bombay High Court in 1997 on the grounds that it violated the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The Supreme Court later upheld the ban.
Social activist Roshni Rodrigues alleged that illegal bullfighting and gambling took place during the event despite prior intimation to the police. The allegations have not been independently verified.
According to Rodrigues, the police had been informed in advance about the gathering but failed to take preventive action. She claimed that both bullfighting and gambling activities were conducted at the venue.
Despite the prohibition, clandestine Dhirio events continue to be reported in several villages.
The issue has resurfaced in public debate after former minister Mickky Pacheco, last week, called for the legalisation of Dhirio, describing the traditional bullfighting event as an integral part of Goa's cultural heritage.
