Colva: Less than two weeks after PI Vikram Naik was transferred from Colva police station, banned bullfights (dhirio) have resurfaced.Colva police have filed a case against bull owners Benard Gomes of Seraulim and Riya Khan of Pedda, Benaulim, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act for allegedly organising dhirio on Sunday.PI Videsh Shirodkar said notices were served on Gomes and Khan, seeking an explanation on why legal action should not be initiated for their alleged role in the illegal event. Shirodkar said he has forwarded information about suspected organisers to higher authorities for further action.The comeback comes despite fatal incidents linked to dhirio. In Sep 2025, Rajesh Nagush Nistani, 42, was gored to death during a bullfight at Majorda. Earlier in 2024, Jenito Vaz died after a bull attack during a dhiri at Benaulim.After Nistani’s death, police intensified enforcement, issuing 41 notices to bull owners and warning that violations would invite prosecution.Dhirios were banned under Bombay high court directions in 1997 for violating the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, but continue to be held in parts of South Goa. Section 11 of the act prohibits inciting an animal to fight another animal for entertainment or any similar purpose.
