New Delhi: The President on Monday gave his green signal to the bill passed by Karnataka Assembly to legalise traditional buffalo race ‘Kambala’.

“In pursuance of the proviso to clause (1) of artcle 213 of the Constitution of India, the President of India hereby approves the promulgation of ‘The Prevention of cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance, 2017’ by the Governor of Karnataka,” read the notification from President.

Bowing to public pressure, a bill to legalise traditional buffalo race ‘Kambala’ and bullock cart races in Karnataka was passed by the state Assembly in February with all parties backing the move.

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, was amended in its application to Karnataka by the bill which was tabled after the clamour for Kambala grew, spurred by the success of pro-jallikattu (taming of bull) stir in Tamil Nadu.

Piloting the Bill, Animal Husbandry Minister A Manju said Kambala was a traditional folk sport and involved no cruelty to animals and it was a “popular will” that it be allowed.

The government did not want to take the ordinance route and preferred legislation to legalise them. Heeding to his appeal, the bill was supported by all parties and passed.

The bill noted the significant role played by traditional sports events “Kambala” and “Bulls race or Bullock cart race” in preserving and promoting traditions and culture among the people in the state.

Kambala, held from November to March, involves a pair of buffaloes tied to the plough and anchored by one person.

They are made to run in parallel muddy tracks in a competition in which the fastest team wins. It is believed to be held to propitiate the Gods for a good harvest, besides being a recreational sport for farmers.