Moodbidri: District Kambala Committee warns against rule violations

Moodbidri: The District Kambala Committee has issued a stern warning that individuals who deliberately delay releasing buffaloes at the starting point or hit them during the race will face a ban from participating in the next two Kambala events.

These decisions were made after extensive discussions during an emergency meeting chaired by committee president Dr. Deviprasad Shetty Belapu in Ontikatte on Thursday.

The committee noted that races intended to conclude within 24 hours are being unnecessarily delayed, violating government regulations. Dr. Deviprasad Shetty emphasized that if such practices continue, they might lead to a complete ban on Kambala events.

To ensure strict adherence to time management, the rules have been further strengthened. Each jockey is now allowed to race with only one pair of buffaloes per category. In exceptional cases, permission to race with two pairs can only be granted with the approval of referees and organizers. No other rule relaxations will be entertained, he clarified.

Mandatory Ambulance and First-Aid Centers

Trishal Poojary, a buffalo owner, highlighted the need for emergency medical services, citing an incident at the Mulki Kambala where an injured jockey had to be transported to the hospital in an auto-rickshaw. He urged organizers to provide ambulances at all events.

The committee agreed to make ambulances and first-aid centers mandatory at every Kambala event, ensuring safety and timely medical care.