PANAJI
The Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court, Pernem, has acquitted two accused in a 2021 bullfight case, citing a lack of evidence to prove their involvement in organising or inciting the fight that led to the death of a bull.
Presiding Officer Shabnam Pratap Nagvekar acquitted Cleto D’Souza and Suryakant Betkar of charges under Section 429 read with Section 34 of the Indian Penal Code, as well as provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act while also observing that the statement of the informant, ASI Nanu Thakur of Pernem Police Station -- who had allegedly reported that a bullfight was taking place at Dandosa Wada in Pernem -- was not recorded.
“In the absence of any such material, one fails to understand as to how the Investigating officer came to a conclusion that the Accused committed the alleged offence and on what basis the Accused was arrested and is chargesheeted," the court said. "The investigating officers have failed to give any explanation as regards the same. Hence, from the above, it is clear that there is no adequate material to prove the case of the prosecution and to convict the Accused for the alleged offences,” it said.
The incident was reported on January 9, 2021 where a bullfight was allegedly organised, resulting in the death of one animal. An FIR was later registered.
During the trial, the prosecution examined multiple witnesses, including a veterinary doctor who conducted the post-mortem and police officials involved in the investigation. The medical evidence confirmed that the bull died due to internal injuries leading to shock.
However, the court found that none of the witnesses provided direct evidence linking the accused to organising or conducting the bullfight. Accordingly, both accused were acquitted.
