Traditional Buffalo Fights Held in Assam Despite Supreme Court Ban

Mori Gaon District Hosts Controversial Buffalo Fights

On Thursday, as part of the Magh Bihu festival, traditional buffalo fights known as 'Moh Juj' took place in certain areas of Morigaon district in central Assam. This event occurred despite a ban imposed by the Supreme Court on such competitions.

According to local media reports, residents from nearby areas participated in the events held in Baidyabari and Ahatguri, while officials declined to comment, stating that the matter was under consideration.

In Baidyabari, over 40 pairs of buffaloes were brought by their owners, with some matches lasting more than 20 minutes. The Ahatguri events saw participation from 33 pairs, attracting a large audience eager to witness the traditional spectacle, which coincides with the Magh Bihu harvest festival.

Earlier in 2023, the Assam government had issued a standard operating procedure (SOP) allowing buffalo and bulbul bird fights during Magh Bihu. However, the Guwahati High Court annulled this SOP in December 2024, citing a violation of the Supreme Court's 2014 ruling.