An earlier hearing by the apex court said that Jallikattu, famous in Tamil Nadu, can only be played if it doesn’t hurt the bulls. It is an event in Tamil Nadu that happens on Mattu-Pongal day during Pongal. It is specifically a bull taming event, where the young of the society tame the bull. After the event, the strong bulls are used for breeding the cows and the weaker bulls are used for agriculture and domestic purposes. On Saturday, the Bharatiya Janata Party suggested that the Supreme Court first become more aware of the cultural significance of the sport and not challenge the decision of the government to continue the Jallikattu festival.
BJP leader H. Raja said, “Worship of bull has been mentioned in Mahabharata period. We worship bulls. Since the bovine is used for agriculture, hence the Jallikattu is a ceremony to give thanks to them. People sitting in the Supreme Court don’t know what Jallikattu is, but are making statements which are completely irrelevant.” He also blamed the UPA government for including this festival in Performing Animals Rules Registration that includes bulls. He also added, “The BJP is in support for the smooth conduct of Jallikattu. The UPA government has intentionally included bull in the performing animals list under the influence of American Christian NGOs. They want to destroy Indian traditions.” On Thursday, the Supreme Court asked an explanation from the government, for the modification in the conduction of Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, and to reach an agreement on it.
Also, the Animal Welfare Association has challenged the Centre’s decision on permission given to Tamil Nadu allowing Jallikattu this year. Amitava Roy and Dipak Misra, members of the bench in apex court asked the Centre to explain the conditions under which they gave permission for the festival. Also, members of the court expressed their discontent with the government’s decision to challenge the panel of judges of the SC, who prohibited usage of animals for sport.
