In a shocking turn of events during a Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga district, two individuals, including a minor, lost their lives after being gored by bulls. Contrary to expectations, the victims were not participants but innocent spectators who became victims when the bulls charged into the crowd, inflicting fatal injuries.

According to media reports, the incident occurred during the traditional bull-taming sport, a highlight of the Pongal festival. Jallikattu has been a subject of controversy, sparking legal battles and debates over its safety for both humans and animals. The sport involves participants attempting to hold on to the hump of a bull, with the winner determined by the duration of their grip.

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Animal rights organizations have consistently called for a ban on Jallikattu, citing dangers to both bulls and participants. The sport faced bans in 2006 and 2014, with the Madras High Court and the Supreme Court ruling against it on grounds of animal cruelty. In response, the Tamil Nadu government introduced amendments to the legislation governing Jallikattu, triggering further legal challenges.

In a landmark decision last year, the Supreme Court upheld the state government’s law, recognizing Jallikattu as an integral part of Tamil Nadu’s cultural heritage. The court, led by Justice KM Joseph, emphasized the historical, cultural, and religious significance of the event, stating that it goes beyond mere entertainment. The court also acknowledged the measures outlined in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 2017, which aims to minimize cruelty to animals during sports. The act includes provisions for the safety and welfare of the bulls, such as proper feeding, water consumption, and a ban on the use of sharp objects or chemicals.