Cruelty is inherent in Kambala events: PETA submits report in SC

Mangaluru/New Delhi: Animal rights activist People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) on Monday submitted its latest investigation report, highlighting the cruely meted out to buffaloes during Kambala, as part of its petition seeking to overturn the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Second Amendment) Act, 2017.

The organisation presented videos and photos taken at four Kambala events held in Moodabidri, Baradi Beedu near Udupi, Mangaluru, and Thiruvail before the Supreme Court to point out that the traditional buffalo race involved acts of cruelty on animals which were not anatomically or physiologically suited for racing.

The report states that the animals are subjected to violent pulling, yanking, and rough handling of nose ropes. It is also alleged that contrary to assurances made by Kambala organisers that ooden sticks covered with foam or fibre would be used to hit the amimals during the race, they were being struck with uncoated sticks. It is evident that the state amendment made to protect buffaloes from harm during the race is ineffective and worthless.

“Cruelty is inherent in Kambala events, as buffalo bulls aren’t anatomically or physiologically suited for racing and no amount of regulation can change this scientific fact,” PETA India CEO Dr Manilal Valliyate said.

Many buffaloes which finished the race were frothing in the mouth and salivating heavily and displayed increased respiratory rates. Two or three tight-fitting 2- to 2.5-centimetre-thick nose ropes were inserted through the nasal septum of many buffalo bulls, the report said.