Moh Juj: A Traditional Buffalo Fight in Assam

GS Paper I Art and Culture

Context:

Recently, the traditional buffalo fight (Moh-Juj), an integral Bihu celebration of Assam, was revived after nine years.

The Assam Government revived a traditional bird-fight ‘Bulbul fight’ which was banned by the high court in 2016.
Request by PETA to Stop: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), India has requested the Assam chief minister to urgently stop Moh-Juj fights.
Reason: As per PETA, these animal fights are in violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960 and judgments of the Supreme Court of India including in Animal Welfare Board of India vs A Nagaraja, (2014).

An Act to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and to amend the law relating to the prevention of cruelty to animals.

The Supreme Court banned the use of bulls and bullocks in “entertainment activities” such as Jallikattu and bullock cart racing, among others.
- However, later jallikattu got an exemption from the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960).

Origin: It was introduced to Assamese culture by 30th Ahom king Swargadeo Rudra Singha nearly 200 years ago.

Moh-Juj: buffalo fight

Moh-Juj: A Traditional Buffalo Fight of Assam

Celebrated asSport: The riverside town of Ahatguri has hosted buffalo fight tournaments as part of Magh Bihu since 1972.
- Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu or Maghar Domahi, is a significant harvest festival celebrated in the northeastern region of India, particularly in Assam.
- It occurs in the month of January–February.

Habitat: The wild buffalo is mainly found in the alluvial grasslands, marshes, swamps and river valleys.
Conservation Status:
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List: Endangered
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
- Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): Appendix III

In 2014, the SC outlawed Jallikattu and bullock-cart races in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra and later stayed a 2016 central government order to permit the traditional bull-fights.
- In May 2023, the SC upheld the amendments made by the legislatures of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960 and allowed bull-taming sports like jallikattu, kambala, and bullock-cart races.
In October 2023, the Gauhati high court asked the Assam Government for framing a standard operating procedures (SOP).
- In December 2023, Assam Government approved traditional buffalo fights under strict SOP so that no animal gets hurt during the sport.

Cruelty and Suffering: Bullfighting inflicts immense physical and psychological suffering on the bulls, all for the sake of entertainment.
Exploitation for Profit: Bulls are used as commodities, and their suffering is exploited for financial gain. The bullfighting industry profits from the spectacle while the animals pay the price.
Cultural Tradition vs. Animal Welfare: While some argue that bullfighting is a cultural tradition, it is essential to consider the ethical implications. Cultural practices should evolve to align with contemporary values of compassion and respect for animals.
Prolonged Torture in the Arena: The bullfight itself is a gruesome display of violence. Bulls are repeatedly stabbed with sharp instruments, leading to significant blood loss and suffering.
Confinement and Isolation: Bulls are typically confined to small, dark enclosures for days leading up to the fight. This isolation and confinement can lead to stress and anxiety, further exacerbating their aggressive tendencies.

As societies continue to evolve and prioritize animal welfare, it is crucial to reevaluate practices like bullfighting and seek alternatives that do not involve cruelty and suffering.
By advocating for the humane treatment of animals, we can work towards a more compassionate and ethical future.

News Source: Hindustan Times