Kambala banned in DK, ministers unhappy

MANGALURU : The Dakshina Kannada district administration on Friday banned Kambala (buffalo racing on slush tracks). The department of animal husbandry and veterinary sciences imposed the ban on a Supreme Court order dated May 7.
Department deputy director Thippe Swamy told TOI the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) had sent an email to the deputy commissioner on the Supreme Court order.“Following the Supreme Court order, and on the directive of AWBI, we have issued a circular banning Kambala in Dakshina Kannada district.”
The circular, dated November 21, said: “The conduct of Kambala festival in Dakshina Kannada district is a violation under Section 3 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Hence, to implement the Supreme Court order dated May 7, a direction has been given. Legal action under the act will be taken against officials and Kambala organisers if the Supreme Court order is not adhered to.”
The circular was sent to all government departments and organizations, the deputy director said.
Two ministers from the coastal region – Vinaykumar Sorake and B Ramanath Rai – are not happy with the ban. After conveying their reservations to animal husbandry and veterinary sciences minister TB Jayachandra, they have decided to pressure the Centre to exclude Kambala from the purview of the order.
“There is no cruelty involved in the conduct of Kambala, which is a coastal tradition. Animals are not subjected to any cruelty during Kambala. Kambala should be allowed,” Rai said.
Health and family welfare minister UT Khader has said he and other legislators from the coastal districts will ensure that the ban doesn’t apply to buffalo racing.