The Justice S. Rajeswaran Commission of Inquiry has concluded that the police’s actions during the 2017 Jallikattu protests in Tamil Nadu were justified. The commission’s 950-page report, submitted to the government but still unpublished, attributes the violence during the protests to “undesirable elements” with “nefarious motives” who hijacked the movement.
According to Justice Rajeswaran, a retired Madras High Court judge who headed the commission, the protests began peacefully but took a violent turn on January 23, 2017, with incidents of stone-throwing and arson reported. The police claimed that the situation worsened, necessitating forceful eviction.
Key Findings:
– The commission exonerates the police from accusations of excess force raised by rights groups and civil society activists.
– The report suggests that the state show sympathy toward youths aged 18-23 who were arrested during the protests, considering the delays in legal proceedings.
– The commission explored the cases of over 3,000 youths arrested during the protests, many of whom face ongoing legal proceedings.
The protests, which began in Alanganallur, Madurai, spread rapidly across Tamil Nadu, culminating in massive demonstrations at Marina Beach. While the protests initially targeted the 2014 Supreme Court ban on Jallikattu, some protesters continued their agitation after the state passed an ordinance legalizing the bull-taming sport, shifting their focus to other unrelated issues.
The report sheds light on the challenges faced by the arrested youths, including lost jobs and opportunities due to the charges against them. Many are still grappling with the aftermath, with unresolved legal cases leaving their futures uncertain.
What is Jallikattu?
Jallikattu, also known as sallikkattu, is a traditional sport in Tamil Nadu that dates back to 400-100 BCE. The term “Jallikattu” comes from the Tamil words “Valli” (coins) and “chatty” (tied). This thrilling event is usually celebrated on the third day of Pongal, known as matte Pongal Day.
How is Jallikattu Celebrated?
During the event, a bull is released into a crowd, and participants attempt to stop it by grabbing its horn. The bulls used for the sport are specifically bred for their strength and agility. The winner of the event is rewarded, and the victorious bull becomes a prized possession.
Cultural Significance
Jallikattu holds immense cultural significance in Tamil Nadu, representing bravery, valour, and virility. This event is more than just a physical contest; It is deeply ingrained in the state’s cultural fabric. Jallikattu serves as a way to pay homage to the bulls, which play a vital role in farming and agriculture.
A Tradition Under Fire
The debate surrounding Jallikattu continues, with proponents arguing that it is an essential part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage, while opponents claim that it promotes animal cruelty. As the festival continues to be celebrated, it remains to be seen how this ancient tradition will evolve in the face of modern concerns.
Jallikattu: A Tug-of-War Between Tradition and Animal Welfare
In a battle that has been raging for years, the fate of Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport in Tamil Nadu, hangs in the balance. The Supreme Court’s ban on the practise in 2014 sparked a wave of protests, with proponents arguing that it is an integral part of Tamil culture.
A Timeline of the Controversy
May 2014: The Supreme Court bans Jallikattu and bullock-cart racing, citing animal cruelty concerns.
– January 2016: The Union government lifts the ban, imposing additional restrictions on the practise.
January 2017: The Tamil Nadu government enacts an amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, allowing Jallikattu and introducing rules to govern its organisation.
February 2018 The Supreme Court refers the case to a 5-judge Constitution Bench to decide if Jallikattu is constitutionally protected as a cultural practise.
May 2023: In a landmark judgement of the Supreme Court of India, the Supreme Court of India ruled in favour of Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport in Tamil Nadu, on May 18, 2023. The court upheld the practise as permitted by the 2017 Tamil Nadu Amendment to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, in the case of Animal Welfare Board v Union Of India.
This decision marked a significant victory for Jallikattu enthusiasts and the Tamil Nadu government, which had enacted the amendment to preserve the cultural heritage of the state. The court’s ruling effectively overturned its previous ban on the practise in 2014, which had sparked widespread protests in Tamil Nadu.
The Supreme Court’s Constitution Bench, comprising five judges, held that the Tamil Nadu Amendment Act was not a piece of colourable legislation and related to Entry 17 of the Concurrent List in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution of India. The court also noted that the amendment minimised cruelty to animals and ensured the conduct of Jallikattu in a regulated manner.
Talented and creative, with experience in writing, Hina covers a wide range of topics, including social issues, politics, and lifestyle. Her insightful articles and engaging storytelling have captivated readers. She is proficient in English, Hindi, Spanish, Gujarati, and Urdu. A winner of the Best Content Writer award in 2020, Hina is multifaceted, with a keen interest in research and investigation journalism.
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