In a big relief to the governments of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Karnataka, the Supreme Court on Thursday, upheld the validity of the traditional sport “Jallikattu” and bullock cart races played as a part of the Pongal harvest festival in the state. Meanwhile, the top court has also directed to ensure the safety and protection of animals under the law.Supreme Court has allowed the validity of similar laws framed by the governments of Maharashtra and Karnataka allowing sports involving animals. The decision has been taken by the bench comprising five judges, who directed that all laws are strictly implemented and the DM and competent authorities shall be responsible for the strict implementation of the amended law.Tamil Nadu government while defending the cultural event “Jallikattu” said that sporting events are part of the culture and no bulls are being harmed in it.Notably, in February 2018, the Supreme Court requested clarification from the Constitution Bench over the legality of defending “Jallikattu” and bullock-cart races in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra under Article 29 (1) of the Constitution as aspects of their cultural rights. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960 has since been revised by Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, allowing “Jallikattu” and bullock cart racing.According to reports, PETA had objected to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Bill 2017 enacted by the state legislature for several reasons, including that it disregarded the ruling of the states high court declaring bull-taming sport to be “illegal.” The top court, however, already rejected the Tamil Nadu governments request for a review of the 2014 ruling prohibiting the use of bulls for “Jallikattu” events and bullock cart races in the state.
