Jallikattu, Bull Taming Sport In Tamil Nadu, Gets Centre’s Nod

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Jan 08 2016: The traditional sport of Jallikattu -- taming a bull with bare hands -- got a green signal from the environment ministry today despite a ban by the Supreme Court and vociferous protests from animal activists.

Jallikattu is held around Pongal and the Environment Minister was under pressure from the state unit of the BJP to allow the festival to be organised with an eye on the Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

Environmental activists have been opposing the government’s move because of the injury it causes to the bulls that participate in the fights.

Members of the Animal Welfare Board had written to environment minister Prakash Javadekar opposing the move.

In May 2014, the Supreme Court had banned using bulls for Jallikattu across the country. It had also directed state governments and the Animal Welfare Board of India to take steps to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals.

The top court’s ban has dampened Pongal festivities, especially in southern districts of Tamil Nadu, where it has been a popular event for centuries.

There had been extensive demands for its restoration. Hundreds of post cards were posted in Tamil Nadu at the behest of the Tamil Maanila Congress.

Mr Javadekar had told NDTV that no torture or cruelty to the animals will be permitted and the government notification will contain certain restrictions.

"I value why SC has ordered this, because there were bad practices at some places... but with certain restrictions, with more sensibilities, we can allow this practice which has been carried for thousands of years," he had added.

 

Courtesy: NDTV