Confident Tamil Nadu gearing for jallikattu

According to reliable sources, the Centre is likely to pass an ordinance in the next few weeks facilitating the conduct of Jallikattu this season. Though an official word is yet to be out, the jalllikattu stakeholders are hopeful of getting the approval this time for the event. Tirunavukkarasu of Samayanallur said that preparations to hold the Pongal sport had already started. Many rural areas of Madurai, Tiruchi and some of the southern districts are now abuzz with activities to be carried out before the jallikattu.

“In many villages, the jallikattu committee has started collecting donations from residents to organise the event. Similarly, the turf was also being prepared in a majority of the venues. Likewise, the tamers and the bulls were also involved in rigorous training,” he added. Many rural areas of Madurai, Tiruchi and some of the southern districts are now abuzz with activities to be carried out before the jallikattu “With elections round the corner, political parties will put maximum pressure on the Centre and get permission this season. If they succeed, then each party may claim credit for it and use it mobilise votes,” said Murali, who was born and brought up in Madurai. 

P Ondiraj of Jallikattu Pathukappu Nala Sangam, says “Arrangements are on for the event in key areas like Palakurichi, Suriyoor and Keeranur in central districts. Village committees have been formed and ‘thalaikattu vari’ (locals’ contributions for organising the sport) is being collected. We are cent per cent hopeful of getting permission to hold Jallikattu this year.” 

He further pointed out that the sangam 15 days back presented petition to the Prime Minister and Union Minister Prakash Javadekar.  “Javadakar assured to consider our request positively,” recalls a hopefilled Ondiraj. The Supreme Court acting on a petition filed by the Animal Welfare Board of India banned Jallikattu, a centuries-old traditional sport of valour, in May 2014.

 Despite repeated appeals seeking permission to hold the event and to remove the bulls from the list of performing animals, there was no action by the Centre.