Operation Quaresma has been launched in Santa Catarina to combat the illegal and cruel tradition known as 'farra do boi,' which involves tormenting a bull.
Operation Quaresma has been initiated in Santa Catarina, Brazil, aimed at dismantling the illegal and cruel tradition of 'farra do boi,' where a bull is released in a remote area and chased by participants until it is exhausted. This traditional event, brought by Azorean immigrants to the state, has been recognized as a form of animal abuse under Brazilian law. The operation is backed by local authorities including the Military Police, Sanitary Surveillance, and the Integrated Agricultural Development Company of Santa Catarina (Cidasc), and will run until April 5th.
The 'farra do boi' ritual, which usually takes place during lent, is explicitly prohibited by national law, particularly under Article 32 of Law No. 9,605/1998, which defines unlawful treatment of animals. This operation underscores the legal framework that exists to protect animal welfare in Brazil and reflects an increasing commitment to enforce these laws more stringently. The authorities aim not only to penalize those who participate in the event but to raise awareness about the cruelty involved in such practices.
As the operation unfolds, potential fines up to R$ 20,000 are being imposed on individuals found responsible for promoting or conducting these activities. This crackdown could serve as a pivotal moment in the struggle against animal cruelty and may encourage further legislative changes or stronger enforcement measures in the future. The response from the public and animal rights groups will likely shape the discourse surrounding traditional practices and their moral implications moving forward.
