Illegal bullfights resurface at Benaulim despite police crackdown

Colva: Illegal bullfights have once again resurfaced in South Goa after a lull of nearly three months, rekindling concerns over public safety and animal cruelty. Despite stringent action and repeated warnings by authorities, bullfights were once again organised on Sunday at Benaulim beach, drawing hundreds of spectators.

Videos of the illegal event have since gone viral on social media, prompting renewed police action.The resurgence comes in the wake of the death of 42-year-old Rajesh Nagush Nistani during a bullfight at Majorda in Sep 2025. Colva police had earlier registered an offence of culpable homicide not amounting to murder, along with charges under the prevention of cruelty to animals act, against the organisers and owners of the bull involved in the fatal incident.Despite this, Colva PI Vikram Naik said police have taken cognisance of the viral footage and are identifying the organisers and bull owners involved. He said that appropriate offences would be registered against those responsible for organising or participating in the banned activity.Following Rajesh’s death, Colva police had issued at least 41 notices to bull owners, cautioning them not to indulge in bullfights.

In addition, look-out circulars were issued against two Betalbatim residents, allegedly bull owners residing abroad, for their involvement. Authorities had warned that any violation would invite prosecution under Section 41A of the Criminal Procedure Code.In Jan 2024, another incident was reported when Jenito Vaz, a resident of Fatrade-Varca, was gored to death by a bull during a ‘dhirio’ event at Benaulim, underscoring dangers associated with the illegal sport.Authorities have reiterated that strict action will continue against those flouting the law, even as residents and activists call for stronger enforcement to prevent further loss of life.