Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Kambala Committee has informed the Karnataka High Court that the planned Kambala event at Palace Grounds on October 26 will not take place. The committee also confirmed that no requests for alternate venues have been submitted to government authorities.
The update came during a hearing on a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by PETA, which opposes the event, arguing it involves animal cruelty. The case was heard by a division bench comprising Chief Justice N.V. Anjaria and Justice K.V. Aravind.
Advocate Vinod Kumar, representing the Kambala Committee, reiterated that no event is scheduled for October 26. Meanwhile, Dhyan Chinnappa, senior advocate representing PETA, argued that if any future permission is granted, it must be disclosed promptly, enabling PETA to seek legal intervention. He also pointed out that a Kambala event is planned for November 9 near the Pilikula Zoo in Dakshina Kannada. The zoo’s director has raised concerns about the potential impact of noise on animals and informed the deputy commissioner.
Advocate General K. Shashikiran Shetty, representing the state government, assured the court that legal documents from the previous Bengaluru Kambala would be submitted. He emphasized that PETA’s primary objection lies in allegations of animal cruelty associated with the event.
The High Court is now considering whether Kambala should remain confined to Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, where it traditionally takes place, or be allowed in other regions. Shetty underscored the cultural significance of Kambala and highlighted that horse racing—which involves transporting animals across states and countries—operates with fewer restrictions.
The court has directed the state government to submit its objections and scheduled the next hearing for November 5.
