Recently, during the three-day Jallikattu event in Madurai, a bull tamer lost his life, and 75 participants sustained injuries.

• The event, part of the Pongal harvest festival, featured 1,100 bulls and 900 tamers.

About Jallikattu

• Definition: Also known as Eruthazhuvuthal, Jallikattu is a traditional bull-taming sport held during the Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu.
• Variations: Vadi manjuviraṭṭu, Vēli viraṭṭu, Vaṭam manjuviraṭṭu are the variants of this sport.
• Objective: Contestants attempt to tame a bull to win a prize. If unsuccessful, the bull’s owner claims the prize.
• Cultural Significance: Celebrates nature, expresses gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and includes cattle worship.
• Regions: Popular in districts such as Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, Theni, Pudukkottai, and Dindigul.
• Breed Used: Pulikulam, native to Sivagangai district, is commonly used in Jallikattu.
• Ancient Origins: References to bull taming are found in a seal from Mohenjodaro (2,500–1,800 BC).
• Tamil Literature: Jallikattu is mentioned in Silappadikaram by  Ilango, a Sangam-era Tamil epic.

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Constitutional Provisions Related to Animal and Culture

• Article 48A: States must improve animal welfare, safeguard wildlife, and ensure animal population growth.
• Article 51A(g): It is a fundamental duty of citizens to show compassion for animals and protect wildlife.
• Article 21: Right to life includes animal life, emphasizing dignity and fair treatment.
• Article 29(1): Protects the cultural rights of citizens, including traditional practices like Jallikattu.
• Entry 17, List III: Allows both the central and state governments to legislate on preventing cruelty to animals.

Recent Developments

• Legal Framework: Jallikattu was banned (2014–2016) but reinstated by the Tamil Nadu government in 2017 via amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
• Supreme Court Verdict (2023): Upheld Tamil Nadu’s law allowing Jallikattu, citing its cultural importance.

Arguments For and Against Jallikattu

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