Jallikattu protests intensify in Tamil Nadu

Jallikattu, bull-taming sport in Tamil Nadu

Madurai: Supporters of Jallikattu continued to stage protests in several parts of Madurai, demanding that the ban imposed on the traditional sport be removed.

Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the Central government's notification allowing Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, thus ruling out the possibilities of the sport being conducted during Pongal this year.

Reacting strongly to the apex court's verdict on Jallikattu, protestors resorted to road blockade, demonstration and closed shops in several parts of Madurai. According to reports, several Jallikattu organisers have threatened to conduct the bull-taming event despite the ban imposed by Supreme Court.

Police personnel have been deployed in strength in the district.

At least 70 people were detained in Sivaganga district, after they attempted to block a train at Devakottai railway station. According to police, members of Tamil National Movement, Tamil Culture Protection Movement and Communist Party of India (CPI) were among the arrested.

Black flags were hoisted by Jallikattu protestors in several parts of the district demanding removal of ban on Jallikattu.

In a city near KK Nagar, several villagers tried to stage a hunger strike at the district collectorate but were stopped and whisked away by the police. According to a report, police also stopped the suicide attempt of a man who doused himself with kerosene and tried to set himself on fire.

Shops and other establishments remained shut in Palamedu, Alanganallur and Avaniapuram, localities which are famous for organising the bull-taming sport.

In Ramanathapuram district, several Jallikattu supporters came with bulls and attempted to block roads, causing tension to escalate further. After a police officer stage talks with them, they demonstrated and shouted slogans against the Centre.

Police said that they are keeping a close watch on the developments and would take severe action if anyone is found violating the Supreme Court order.