Less than two weeks after Police Inspector Vikram Naik was transferred from Colva police station, banned bullfights, locally known as dhirio, have made a comeback in the area. The Colva police have registered a case against bull owners Benard Gomes of Seraulim and Riya Khan of Pedda, Benaulim, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act for allegedly organizing a dhirio on Sunday.
Police Action Against Organizers
Police Inspector Videsh Shirodkar stated that notices have been served to Gomes and Khan, asking them to explain why legal action should not be initiated for their alleged involvement in the illegal event. Shirodkar further mentioned that he has forwarded information about suspected organizers to higher authorities for further action.
History of Fatal Incidents
The resurgence of dhirio comes despite several fatal incidents linked to these events. In September 2025, Rajesh Nagush Nistani, a 42-year-old man, was gored to death during a bullfight in Majorda. Earlier, in 2024, Jenito Vaz died after being attacked by a bull during a dhirio in Benaulim.
Following Nistani's death, police had intensified enforcement efforts, issuing 41 notices to bull owners and warning that any violations would invite prosecution.
Legal Status of Dhirio
Dhirios were banned under the Bombay High Court directions in 1997 for violating the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Section 11 of the act explicitly prohibits inciting an animal to fight another animal for entertainment or any similar purpose. Despite the ban, these events continue to be held in parts of South Goa.
The recent incident highlights the ongoing challenge of enforcing the ban and ensuring the safety of both animals and participants.
