HC rejects plea on Jallikattu post-Pongal

Madurai, Mar 10 (UNI) Observing that the Supreme Court had allowed conduct of Jallikattu' (bull taming event) only during the 'Pongal' season, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court today rejected a plea for its conduct in the coming days at Devakottai in Sivaganga district.

A Division Bench comprising Mr Justice S Palanivelu and Mr Justice K Mohan Ram said they could not stay the order of the sub-collector, who denied permission to organise Jallikattu, as part of a local temple festival. However, the Bench posted the case for further hearing tomorrow.

Mr Justice Mohan Ram said a stay order on the conduct of the village sport, which the apex court granted on a petition from Animal Welfre Borad of India, was later 'modified' on a review petition from the State Government.

However, the apex court had slapped a few restrictions to avoid cruelty to animals and casualty. The Bench dismissed the contention that the order did not specify the period of its conduct-- during the Pongal season.

The Supreme Court allowed conduct of the event considering its bond with local culture, the Bench observed.

UNI GSM JJ SV RS1912