Dhirios, the traditional bullfights of Goa, have been banned under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. However, there are several contradictions when we compare this ban to other accepted practices. For example, killing animals for meat is legal and not seen as cruelty under the same law. Boxing, a sport where injuries and even deaths are common, is allowed and respected. Cockfighting, still seen in parts of South India and often fatal for the birds, rarely faces the same kind of legal action.
In Goa, Dhirios are held in open spaces without proper safety measures, putting spectators at risk. But in Italy, similar bullfights still happen despite the dangers, and they have not been banned. This shows that the idea of cruelty changes from place to place. In Goa, Dhirios are often linked to betting and high stakes. Bull or buffalo owners spend a lot of money on their animals throughout the year, more out of passion than for profit. Yet, sponsors are hard to find.
Even some former Chief Ministers and political candidates have tried to bring back Dhirios to gain support from voters, though these efforts have not succeeded legally. The current discussion must begin by looking at the legal issues and ensuring safety. If Dhirios are to be revived, they must take place in proper arenas. Dhirios are not a sport in the usual sense”they draw crowds more for gambling than for sport.
