Guwahati, Nov 28: The Assam Assembly on Thursday unanimously passed the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Assam Amendment) Bill, 2025, exempting the traditional buffalo fight, or ‘Moh Juj,’ from the state’s animal cruelty law. The amendment mirrors exemptions for traditional practices like Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu and bullock cart races in Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Krishnendu Paul said ‘Moh Juj’ is important for preserving Assam’s cultural heritage and supporting native buffalo breeds. The amendment allows buffalo fights to be held during Magh Bihu celebrations or other notified days without being considered animal cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.

The bill was passed unanimously with no opposition or amendments. The move comes after the Gauhati High Court in December 2024 had quashed an Assam government SOP that allowed buffalo and Bulbul bird fights, citing a 2014 Supreme Court ruling.

The 2023 SOP, approved by the state Cabinet, had reinstated these events with safety measures, including bans on intoxicants and sharp weapons. Bulbul bird fights are held annually at Hayagriva Madhav temple in Hajo, Kamrup, while buffalo fights take place notably in Ahatguri (Morigaon), Sivasagar, and other Upper Assam districts.