FIR against 10 named, unidentified others over banned Hela Takkar bull fight at Shahpur fair in Burhanpur

In Shahpur in Burhanpur district, a Hela Takkar, a fight between animals, was held on Monday night, the second day of Diwali, despite a ban. The event took place under cover of a fair held on the banks of the Amravati river. The administration has banned Hela Takkar until January 2027.

Police have registered an FIR against 10 named people and 8 to 10 unidentified people for organising it. That is, 10 people are named in the FIR, while 8 to 10 others are not. The case against the organisers has been registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and under sections relating to endangering the life and property of people.

On Tuesday, SP Ashutosh Bagri said Hela Takkar is completely banned. The Collector has issued an order prohibiting it until January 2027. The SP said the administration had not permitted Hela Takkar anywhere. In Shahpur, permission had been given only for holding a fair, that is, the approval was for the fair and not for an animal fight.

The SP said action would be taken under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act for organising the fight despite the ban. If any animal is injured, Section 325 of the BNS will also be invoked. The section provides for up to 5 years' imprisonment.

Asked why the president of the Hela Samiti is not named in the FIR, the SP said the case has been registered against those who had taken permission for the fair. According to him, more names can be added to the FIR if videos or other evidence are found.

The SP also said it has emerged that the animals were given intoxicants before the Hela Takkar. He has directed all station house officers to be strict in their areas. According to the SP, action will be taken whenever a case of cruelty to animals comes to light.

Hela Takkar is a form of animal fight in which two animals, usually bulls, are made to clash with each other. It is a violent activity and is regarded as cruelty to animals.