Govt Response Sought on Plea Seeking Non-Application of Jallikattu SOP on Manjuvirattu

The Madras High Court has sought a response from the state government while hearing a recent Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the application of Jallikattu guidelines to Manjuvirattu events in Tamil Nadu. The petitioner, secretary of Parambariya Manjuvirattu Padhukappu Nala Sangam, argued that the government had imposed the guidelines on four bull games without recognising the inherent differences, especially between Jallikattu and Manjuvirattu. While Jallikattu involves the release of bulls one at a time within a confined arena, Manjuvirattu features the simultaneous release of multiple bulls on open grounds. The petitioner contended that imposing Jallikattu’s standard operating procedures, such as defined arenas, bull examination areas, and uniform requirements on Manjuvirattu, would compromise its traditional form.

This legal action underscores the ongoing debate over the regulation of traditional bull-taming sports in Tamil Nadu. In October 2024, the Madras High Court directed the state government to permit only native-breed bulls to participate in Jallikattu, excluding foreign and cross-breed bulls. The court emphasised that artificial insemination of cattle amounts to cruelty and advocated for natural breeding methods to preserve the rights of the animals.

These developments highlight the complex interplay between cultural traditions, animal welfare concerns, and legal frameworks in regulating traditional sports in India.