Archive · 15 Jan 2026
Assam's Moh Juj Buffalo Fights Held Despite Legal Uncertainty
Moh Juj is a traditional buffalo fight in Assam, India, that is celebrated during Magh Bihu.
This year, the fights were held in places like Baidyabori and Ahatguri, even though there is a legal ban.
The Assam government wants to make these fights official and is waiting for the President of India to approve a new law.
This law would make sure that the buffalo fights are not considered cruel to animals.
The government hopes to organize the event officially next year once they get the approval.
The event is important for keeping Assam's culture alive and for taking care of local buffalo breeds.
Right now, they are being careful because they don't have the final approval yet, but people still participated in the fights this year.
Traditional Moh Juj (buffalo fights) were held in Assam's Morigaon district during Magh Bihu celebrations despite a Supreme Court ban.
Over 40 pairs of buffaloes competed in Baidyabori and 33 pairs in Ahatguri, drawing large crowds.
The Assam government is seeking to legalize buffalo fights by amending the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, with a Bill passed in the state Assembly awaiting presidential assent.
Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika stated that the event is likely to be conducted officially next year.
Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Krishnendu Paul emphasized the cultural significance of Moh Juj in preserving Assam’s heritage and promoting indigenous buffalo breeds.
- Who
- Assam Government, Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Minister Krishnendu Paul, President Droupadi Murmu, Local Communities in Morigaon
- What
- Moh Juj (buffalo fight) event held despite legal uncertainty and awaiting presidential assent for official organization
- When
- January 15, 2025 (Magh Bihu celebrations), Expected to be organized officially next year (2025)
- Where
- Assam, India (Baidyabori, Ahatguri, Morigaon, Sivasagar, Upper Assam)
- Why
- To preserve cultural heritage and promote indigenous buffalo breeds, following an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and despite a Supreme Court ban
- Event
- Moh Juj (buffalo fight)
- Status
- Awaiting presidential assent
- Expected Year
- 2025
- Legislation
- Amendment to Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960
- Minister
- Pijush Hazarika
- Cultural Significance
- Preserving Assam’s cultural heritage and promoting indigenous buffalo breeds
- Locations
- Baidyabori, Ahatguri, Morigaon, Sivasagar, Upper Assam
- Participants
- Over 40 pairs in Baidyabori, 33 pairs in Ahatguri