Khliehriat (Meghalaya): The East Jaintia Hills district administration has imposed a complete ban on bull fights and all forms of animal fights across the district, invoking powers under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
In an official order issued on February 12, 2026, District Magistrate Manish Kumar, said that incidents of bull fights and animal fights continue to be reported in certain areas of the district, particularly during fetes and local festivals, despite earlier prohibitory directions.
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The order stated that the organisation of such events violates Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, as well as the Supreme Court of India’s 2014 judgment prohibiting bull fighting.
Citing the urgency of the matter, the District Magistrate issued the order ex-parte, prohibiting bull fights and animal fights throughout East Jaintia Hills district with immediate effect.
The order will remain in force until further directions.
The administration has warned that any violation of the ban will invite strict legal action under relevant laws.
Authorities have also called for public cooperation to ensure compliance with the order and prevent cruelty to animals in the district.
