Mexico City’s local Congress on Tuesday passed a measure aiming to make bullfights much less harmful to bulls and matadors, a move applauded by animal rights activists but sharply criticised by fans of the centuries-old tradition.
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The measure, among other things, will not allow bullfighters to use spades and swords to attack the animal, which in turn will have its horns covered to prevent injuries to humans.
The bill, introduced by Mayor Clara Brugada of the ruling Morena party, passed with 61 votes in favour and one against.
Outside the local Congress, dozens of bullfighting fans clashed with police. Some broke past a barrier and attempted to force their way inside of the building. Other demonstrators held up signs announcing their respect for the bull.
On March 1, bullfighter Emilio Macias was seriously injured in the neighbouring state of Tlaxcala after being pierced in the behind by a bull’s horn.
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“The aim is not to make bullfighting disappear, but evolve,” lawmaker Victor Hugo Romo de Vivar said.