SC questioned on Old age jallikattu
While asserting that it disapproves arguments that the
‘Jallikattu’ should be allowed because it’s centuries old, the Supreme Court
has set August 30 as the final hearing date to decide on the constitutionality
of Jallikattu.
Background:
The court’s strong response was after Tamil Nadu argued that
Jallikattu – the mostly southern bull-racing sport – should be permitted as it
showcases a cultural tradition that has been part of the custom and culture of
people of the state for 5,000 years.
- The Supreme Court already banned Jallikattu once, in May 2014. At the time it said bulls could not be used as performing animals, either for Jallikattu or for bullock-cart races. However, in January, the Centre allowed the ‘sport’ in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra. It was seen as a pre-state election manoeuvre; state elections were held in Tamil Nadu in May.
- Days after the Centre allowed it, in January, the Supreme Court put Jallikattu on hold. It issued notices to the Centre and other states asking them to file their responses in four weeks, to petitions challenging the central government’s notification allowing Jallikattu and bullock-cart races.
Jallikattu:
Jallikattu is a bull taming sport played in Tamil Nadu as a part
of Pongal celebrations on Mattu Pongal day. It is a Tamil tradition called
‘Yeru thazhuvuthal’ in Sangam literature(meaning, to embrace bulls), popular
amongst warriors during the Tamil classical period.
- Jallikattu is based on the concept of “flight or fight”. All castes participate in the event. The majority of jallikattu bulls belong to the pulikulam breed of cattle.
