Guwahati: The Kamrup district administration has imposed a complete ban on Bulbuli bird fights during the Magh Bihu celebrations, citing violations of wildlife protection laws and a recent ruling of the Gauhati High Court.
The order was issued on Tuesday (January 13) and digitally signed by the District Magistrate, Kamrup at Amingaon.
In a prohibitory order issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Samhita (BNSS), 2023, District Magistrate of Kamrup Deba Kumar Mishra stated that the Gauhati High Court, in its final judgment in WP(C) 466/2024 delivered on December 17, 2024, had declared the Assam government’s December 27, 2023 notification permitting buffalo and Bulbuli fights illegal.
The court ruled that the notification was in contravention of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and other animal protection laws.
The order noted that intelligence inputs suggested a likelihood of violations of the Wildlife Protection Act during Magh Bihu festivities in certain parts of Kamrup district.
It further emphasised that the Bulbuli bird is a protected species listed under Schedule IV of the Act, and that organising fights involving the bird would constitute cruelty and cause harm to a protected species.
Referring to the long-standing tradition of Bulbuli fights in Hajo, the district magistrate said continuation of such events would amount to a direct violation of statutory provisions as well as explicit court directions. The Gauhati High Court, the order added, has categorically ruled against the legality of such practices.
Invoking powers under Section 163 of the BNSS, the district administration has prohibited the holding of Bulbuli fights across Kamrup district, including those traditionally organised in Hajo, during Magh Bihu celebrations. The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain in force until further notification.
The administration clarified that the order was issued ex parte, as the prevailing circumstances did not permit prior notice to individuals or organisations. However, those aggrieved have been granted liberty to approach the district magistrate seeking modification or rescission of the order.
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The Superintendent of Police, Kamrup, has been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the ban. Any violation will invite penal action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable provisions of law.
