GK Vasan urges Centre, state govts to take steps to lift Jallikattu ban by SC

CHENNAI: Ahead of Pongal festival celebrations next month in Tamil Nadu, former Union Minister GK Vasan today asked the Centre and state governments to make efforts to get permission from the Supreme Court for continuing the traditional bull taming event ' Jallikattu' in the state.

The apex court had on May 7 this year banned bull fights and bullock-cart racing in Tamil Nadu and other states.

The Centre and the state governments should take steps to conduct Jallikattu this year itself in a way that doesn't injure the bulls much and also ensure safety of the participants and audience after getting permission from the Supreme Court, Vasan, Tamil Maanila Congress Chief, said in a statement.

"It has been the desire of the people of Tamil Nadu to continue the traditional Jallikkattu..," he added.

Jallikattu is held in Tamil Nadu as a part of Pongal (harvest festival) celebrations.