Jallikattu LIVE: Kamal Haasan says more people die in accidents than in bull-taming sport

Even MGR would have supported the movement 

“I could have imagined a scenario where MGR would have come to meet protestors. He would have also protested with them.” 

I could have imagined a scenario where MGR would have come to meet protestors. He would have also protested with them: @ikamalhaasan

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 24, 2017

Don’t ban, just regulate: Kamal Haasan

Don't ban anything, I say regulate: Kamal Haasan #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/zPwaAutyrr

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2017

Haasan: Hope videos are fake

Shocked, hope police in videos not real, says @ikamalhaasan #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/72pUHFd6th

— NDTV (@ndtv) January 24, 2017

Kamal Haasan on anti-national comment by Subramianiam Swamy

“CP Ramaswami Iyer wanted a separate Trivancore, would you call him anti-national? Even Tamil Nadu wanted to go separate. It is Patel and VP Menon integrated India. However, we must clarify and why did he said such things. There is some legitimacy in the complaint.”

Disturbed by violence in Chennai

Kamal said that the violence in Chennai has disturbed him. He also added that he hopes that the videos showing police indulging in arson are fake.

Kamal Haasan on “makkal movement”

When asked on why he is not actively part of the movement, Kamal said, “I kept out because I didn’t want to steal the limelight on the agitating students.”

“People make fun calling this a leaderless movement, but look at the cohesion among the people.”

Kamal Haasan says agitation a symbol of discontent 

Kamal Haasan comes out in full support of jallikattu and said that it cannot be banned. He asked why is not Peta also looking into the treatment of Kerala’s temple elephants.  

Have been demanding this for over 20 yrs. We were the early agitators of this law because it showed double standard-Kamal Haasan #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2017

Opposing Jallikattu is double standards: Kamal Haasan

Addressing the media on Tuesday, actor Kamal Haasan questioned the Chennai police action against the protester and said that anyone who opposes Jallikattu (on whatever count) has double standards. “I was shocked (to see video of cop committing arson), hope some sort of explanation is given to us so that we can calm down.”

Equally shocked (to see video of cop committing arson), hope some sort of explanation is given to us so that we can calm down: Kamal Haasan pic.twitter.com/j6sl0jNJNF

— ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2017

Kamal Haasan speaking to the press LIVE

#BREAKING 'We did not use force at Marina beach' S George, Police Commissioner Chennai. pic.twitter.com/soLGVOzhAK

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 23, 2017

Tamil Nadu Governor C. Vidyasagar Rao forwards the #Jallikattu bill to President Pranab Mukherjee for his consent

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Caught On Camera -- A Chennai cop sets an auto on fire during the protests. Are cops trying to sabotage #JallikattuProtests? pic.twitter.com/1n4k67aG6E

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 23, 2017

JUST IN -- This incident should be probed further, says Manu Sundaram, DMK to CNN-News18 #JallikattuProtests #JallikattuWins

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 23, 2017

#chennai spirit. People watched an impressive mass movement. Your voice echoed further while it was peaceful. Lets keep it that way

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) January 23, 2017

Key points of Jallikattu Bill

Replacing an ordinance promulgated two days ago to allow jallikattu, the Bill would amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.

The Bill defines jallikattu as an event involving bulls conducted with a view to following tradition and culture from January to May and it includes similar events like ‘manjuviratu’, ‘vadamadu’ and ’erudhuvidum’ festivals.

The Bill further said, considering the vital role of jallikattu in preserving and promoting tradition and culture among people and also in view of ensuring the survival and continuance of native breeds of bulls, the “Government of Tamil Nadu has decided to exempt jallikattu from the provisions of the PCA Act”.

With inputs from PTI

DMK working president MK Stalin meets Governor Vidyasagar Rao

Chennai: DMK's MK Stalin meets Tamil Nadu Governor C.Vidyasagar Rao #jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Reactions pour in from outside Tamil Nadu

​

I am happy that #jallikattu will happen and I respect the culture and will of the TN people: K Kavitha (TRS MP from Nizamabad,Telangana) pic.twitter.com/owmPb6Pk6g

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Kamal Haasan tweets video clipping which allegedly shows Tamil Nadu police as a perpetrator

What is this. Please explain some one pic.twitter.com/MMpFXHSOVk

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) January 23, 2017

Venkaiah Naidu appeals for calm

Stressing that the Centre and Tamil Nadu governments are “sensitive” towards the culture and ethos of the state, Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu appealed to those agitating on the jallikattu issue to give up their stir as steps have been taken to address their concerns. Read more.

Panneerselvam tweets, urges people to end stir

​

It's time to celebrate the historic moment. Let's end the protest and get ready for #Jallikattu

— O Panneerselvam (@OfficeOfOPS) January 23, 2017

Jallikattu bill passed by TN Assembly

In a major victory for the protesters, the Tamil Nadu Assembly unanimously passes the jallikattu bill within minutes of it being introduced by Chief Minister Panneerselvam. 

Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam tables #Jallikattu bill in Assembly

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Jallikattu Bill passed unanimously in TN Assembly: AIADMK

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Rajinikanth pens letter to protesters

In a letter penned in Tamil, the actor urged protestors to stop their protest. Rajinikanth also added that miscreants are trying to hijack protest & bring bad name to them.

Rajinikanth appeals protesters to end their protest. Says miscreants trying to hijack protest & bring bad name to them #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/WMz8kkqmn8

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on jallikattu crackdown: Some anti-social elements creating trouble

The spiritual guru condemned the police action on protesters, says he is pained by the violence in the state. He added that the government should give more assurances to the people. The Art of Living founder also appealed to the public to maintain calm and urged them to withdraw their protest since they have won their battle.

“People have won their battle but some elements in the crowd mislead the protesters”, he told Times Now.

Film legend Kamal Haasan condemns police action

This is a mistake. Aggressive police action on students passive resistance will not bear good results.

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) January 23, 2017

AIADMK minister Pandiarajan defends action 

State minister Pandiarajan while speaking to India Today defended the police crackdown on protesters, claiming that anti-social elements were part of the protests. The minister also claimed that anti-national slogans were raised by protesters.

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss condemns police crackdown on protesters

Curfew in Alanganallur 

Police has imposed Section 144 in Alanganallur, the epicentre of the jallikattu protest. Alanganallur is the place where the Tamil Nadu government was supposed to host a jallikattu event on Sunday.

DMK stages walkout 

The first session of Tamil Nadu Assembly this year began on a dramatic note as Opposition DMK staged a walkout protesting the polic crackdown on protesters. DMK leader Stalin also slammed the AIADMK government for “authoritarian mindset”.

Marina Beach crackdown

In an early morning crackdown, the police in Chennai started removing scores of protesters who were demonstrating at the Marina beach for the past one week, demanding a permanent solution for holding Jallikattu .

Following an advisory, the crackdown comes on a day when the state Assembly is expected to discuss the matter after the customary Governor’s address.

Jallikattu bill to be passed today

The Tamil Nadu Assembly to call for a special session at 5 pm on Monday to discuss the jallikattu bill and is expected to pass it today itself, says Times Now.

Fire near Ice House Police Station in Chennai, Police disperse Jallikattu protesters #MakkalMovement pic.twitter.com/z7CSquFQV4

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 23, 2017

Visuals of violent protests in Chennai 

Tamil Nadu: Fire at Ice House Police Station near Marina Beach in Chennai, Police disperse protesters #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/i44VmV0MN2

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Chennai: Vehicles near Ice House Police station set on fire #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/OVlfNY7Qx4

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Protest turns violent across Tamil Nadu

​

The jallikattu protest took a violent turn on Monday, with protesters setting vehicles near the Ice House police station on fire. Meanwhile, the police resorted to lathicharge in Madurai, after protesters began stone pelting. 

Reports suggest that protest turned violent in seven places across the state. 

Earlier in the day, police had vacated protesters from Marina Beach. 

Tamil Nadu: Clash between protesters and Police in Madurai's Alanganallur , an injured protester being taken to hospital #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/ipERq4jVPz

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Tamil Nadu: Fire at Ice House Police Station near Marina Beach in Chennai, Police disperse protesters #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/MBDYEbHz7Z

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Tamil Nadu: Police forcefully remove protesters in Madurai's Alanganallur #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/4oiSXIi2C6

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Tamil Nadu: Police detain more than 100 protesting students near Meenakshi Hall in Coimbatore. #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 23, 2017

Kamal Haasan slams PETA

After top Tamil film actors Suriya and Vijay, veteran star Kamal Haasan today slammed animal rights advocacy group PETA over its opposition to jallikattu, saying it was not ‘qualified’ to tackle Indian bulls and asked it to train its guns against “bull riding rodeos in Mr (Donald) Trump’s US.”

“PETA go ban bull riding rodeos in Mr Trump’s US You’re not qualified to tackle our bulls,” he said in a tweet.

PTI

PETA go ban bull riding rodeos in Mr.Trump's U.S. You're not qualified to tackle our bulls. Empires have been made to quit India.

— Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) January 22, 2017

Tamil Nadu: People gathered at Chennai's Marina beach switch on their mobile flashlights to show support for bull-taming sport #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/53ZpdgWTAF

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Here is the notification of the ordinance on jallikattu

​

Notification on #Jallikattu ordinance, detailing rules and regulations to be followed for the conduct of the game. pic.twitter.com/DorJDuyjD1

— O Panneerselvam (@OfficeOfOPS) January 22, 2017

Jallikattu protests lead to eight trains being cancelled; many others partially cancelled 

Tamil Nadu: Eight trains cancelled, many partially cancelled in the wake of protest held across the state in support of #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/WIGhqVGUqd

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Protesters stop train in Madurai 

Tamil Nadu: Locals stop train in Sellur, Madurai as protest in support of bull taming sport #Jallikattu gains momentum. pic.twitter.com/j3UpJJCXLx

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Two killed in jallikattu event 

In what can add to the already growing controversy over the bull taming sport, TV reports suggest that two people have been killed at a state sponsored jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu’s Pudukottai district. More information is awaited.

Sri Lankan refugees support protests

Rameshwaram, which has a sizable Sri Lankan Tamil population, witnessed a protest by the refugee community in support of a permanent law on jallikattu. 

Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu): Sri Lankan refugees stage protest in support of #jallikattu in Rameswaram refugee camp pic.twitter.com/uxu8eJfJEd

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Protest intensifies across state

Protesters demand a permanent solution to the issue. Many blocked roads leading to the ground zero, Alanganallur, while women in Madurai staged sit-in to protest against the ban. 

Alanganallur (Madurai): Villagers demanding a permanent solution for #jallikattu issue blocked roads leading to Alanganallur village pic.twitter.com/HH4ub7MDcP

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Alanganallur (Madurai): Villagers stage a sit-in protest demanding a permanent solution for #Jallikattu issue. pic.twitter.com/DpSQ7XWbl9

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Alanganallur (Madurai): Don't want a temporary relief, we need permanent solution.Want ban on PETA: Bharathi Kannamma,protester #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/r8z4A8b8GB

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Jallikattu held across Tamil Nadu

​

#WATCH: #Jallikattu organized in Pudupatti village in Tiruchirappalli, 100 bulls and more than 500 bull tamers participate #TamilNadu pic.twitter.com/G3SSBd7Ylq

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

State government to move event to Dindigul?

Media reports suggest that the government may organise the jallikattu event in Dindigul. Chief Minister O Panneerselvam too is on his way to the venue while the sport has been conducted in several other places across the state.

Spiritual leader Jaggi Vasudev tweets; congratulates Tamil people on jallikattu ordinance

Congratulations to all in TN for #Jallikattu. Thanks to PM. -Sg @narendramodi

— Sadhguru (@SadhguruJV) January 22, 2017

Environment Minister Anil Dave mulling ban on Peta

According to an ANI report in The Indian Express, the government is mulling to ban the animal rights NGO Peta after the jallikattu fiasco. “PETA, is an NGO, funded by foreign countries. They always rake up these issues. We will see as to what can be done,” the minister was quoted by the agency as saying.

Officials blocked from Alanganalur 

Times Now reports that protesters have blocked the route to Alanganallur. The chief minister as well as district officials have also been not allowed to enter the venue. Protesters cry foul that they had not been shown the draft of the ordinance on the bull sport before it was promulgated.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam tweets, confirms the government has filed caveat in SC

TamilNadu Govt files caveat petition in SC over #Jallikattu, asks court not to pass any order without hearing TN.

— O Panneerselvam (@OfficeOfOPS) January 22, 2017

Makkal movement continues in Chennai

Chennai's Marina Beach witnesses massive crowd in support of the bull taming sport #Jallikattu which is to be organized today. pic.twitter.com/tNXaKvbr7R

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Protest continues at Chennai’s Marina Beach

Chennai: Protesters make sand art in support of #Jallikattu at Marina Beach pic.twitter.com/kuwaVbU0MC

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Tamil Nadu moves Supreme Court 

Times Now reports that the Tamil Nadu has filed caveat in the Supreme Court on Jallikattu after an ordinance was promulgated on Saturday. The state government had previously filed caveat on 10 January to ensure that the apex court did not block the Centre’s notification on the sport before hearing its plea.

Welcome the initiatives taken by state govt & support of centre on #jallikattu,as it is connected with the faith of ppl of TN: Piyush Goyal pic.twitter.com/FNY7IY7GkS

— ANI (@ANI) January 22, 2017

Madurai event likely to be called off

Because of severe opposition, the jallikattu event at Madurai is likely to be called off, said news reports. The protesters have demanded a ‘permanent’ solution to the jallikattu issue.

Panneerselvam thanks PM for support to jallikattu

Tamil Nadu chief minister O Panneerselvam has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support to jallikattu, an emotive issue which triggered mass protests across the state. “On behalf of the government and people of Tamil Nadu, I thank you for all your support and assistance in enabling jallikattu to be held in Tamil Nadu once again during the Pongal season, upholding the culture and tradition of the people of Tamil Nadu,” he in a letter. Panneerselvam said the Tamil Nadu government had issued an ordinance, enabling the conduct of the bull-taming sport, after obtaining the prior instructions of the President Pranab Mukherjee as envisaged under Article 213 of the Constitution. “The Ordinance was promulgated by the government of Tamil Nadu and jallikattu is to be conducted with customary fervour all over the state with all the necessary safeguards,” he said.

New jallikattu law in upcoming Assembly session

Since ordinance will last for 6mnths,in coming assembly session will formulate new law so #Jallikattu takes place without hindrance:TN CM

— ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2017

Vaadivasal to be opened, announces CM Panneerselvam

Vaadivasal will be opened and the bulls which have been locked up will come, so that the jallikattu warriors can embrace them, says Tamil Nadu chief minister O Panneerselvam

Vaadivasal to be opened, announces CM Panneerselvam

Vaadivasal will be opened and the bulls which have been locked up will come, so that the jallikattu warriors can embrace them, says Tamil Nadu chief minister O Panneerselvam

Panneerselvam thanks PM Modi for support in enabling jallikattu

On behalf of Government and people of TN, thank you for your support in enabling Jallikattu to be held in Tamil Nadu once again - CM to PM.

— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) January 21, 2017

Salman Khurshid not in favour of ordinance

This matter could still go to the SC, & we could get an adverse decision from SC,for those who're agitation against decision:Salman Khurshid pic.twitter.com/pUEXVcqec2

— ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2017

Not a long-term solution, says Salman Khurshid

The ordinance allowing jallikattu will be a short-term solution which won’t resolve the actual issue, laments Congress leader Salman Khurshid

People continue to throng Marina beach

The ordinance has been cleared and the state government has announced it will hold a jallikattu event in Madurai on Sunday, but thousands of people continue to throng Marina Beach in Chennai

Tamil Nadu to witness jallikattu again

Governor Vidyasagar Rao gives his assent to the emergency ordinance, permitting the state government to hold jallikattu events once again

Jallikattu to take place on Sunday

The Bill to replace today's Ordinance on #Jallikattu will be tabled in State Assembly on January 23 when the first Assembly session begins.

— ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2017

Clearing ordinance hastily sets a dangerous precedent

The Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to bring an ordinance to allow the conduct of jallikattu and the central government’s agreement to facilitate presidential assent to such an ordinance, sets a rather dangerous precedent when it comes to the law relating to animal welfare in India. Read more on this by Ajay Kumar .

Centre clears jallikattu ordinance
 

#BREAKING -- Law Ministry approves ordinance on #Jallikattu with minor changes #JallikattuWins pic.twitter.com/m0wG0u6obf

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 20, 2017

Watch: Music legend breaks his fast live on Periscope

AR Rahman breaks his one-day fast in support of jallikattu

Ordinance draft sent to Centre

The Tamil Nadu government has finished drafting the ordinance that will legalise the banned sport. The draft ordinance has been sent to the Centre for its nod, according to NDTV.

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss welcomes ordinance but says won’t accept stopgap solutions

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss told Times Now that he welcomes the state and central government’s move to promulgate an ordinance to allow jallikattu, but said that he will not be satisfied with any stopgap solutions.

He said that the youth, who have been protesting against the ban on the cultural sports will not accept a temporary solution and would agree on nothing but a permanent provision in law that validates their tradition.

He also said that if the option to promulgate an ordinance was available, why didn’t the government do it before the festival of Pongal.

He also whatever the org has done is very good and has full backing of SC. Peta India has released statement “we must actively avoid becoming a lawles society and refrain from indulging in 

If spl ordinance option was der, y then Central & State gvt dint bring it b4 #Pongal. Both gvts deceived #TN #makkalmovement #jallikattu

— Dr ANBUMANI RAMADOSS (@draramadoss) January 20, 2017

Need permanent solution. #TN gvt's ordinance is a #drama. Pls dont try 2 decieve #TNyouths #makkalmovement#Jallikattuprotest shud continue

— Dr ANBUMANI RAMADOSS (@draramadoss) January 20, 2017

Jallikattu protests a lesson for Hindutva forces that India is a pluralistic society: Owaisi

Taking the pro-jallikattu protests raging across Tamil Nadu as an opportunity to hit out at the centre , AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that the movement should serve as a lesson for Hindutva forces.

Owaisi said in a tweet that Hindutva forces must learn that India can not have one culture, and therefore a Uniform Civil Code can’t be imposed on all.

#Jallikattuprotest Lesson for Hindutva forces,Uniform Civil Code cannot be "imposed"this nation cannot have one CULTURE we celebrate all

— Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) January 20, 2017

People of Tamil Nadu by Uniting & coming together have forced the Modi &AIADMK govt to change law to overcome Supreme court judgment

— Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) January 20, 2017

Superstars Rajnikanth, Kamal Haasan join pro-jallikattu protests

According to a report in Times Now , Tamil Superstar Rajnikanth and Kamal Hasan joined the protest at the South Indian Artistes Association, popularly known as Nadigar Sangam. Apart from him, other prominent actors such as Suriya, Ajith and Dhanush have also joined the protest in support of the ancient Tamil sport.

Cannot direct Centre, state govt to enact special law: Madras HC

The Madras high court dismissed a PIL seeking enactment of a special law with conditions by the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government for holding jallikattu, saying it cannot issue such a direction. “The court cannot issue such a direction,” the bench, comprising chief justice SK Kaul and Justice M Sundar said, while hearing a petition by KK Ramesh, managing trustee of Tamil Nadu Centre for Public Interest Litigation. On a plea by advocate R Krishnamurthy for action against “illegal” gathering of a large number of people on the Marina beach in support of jallikattu, the bench said it is an administrative matter. “It is a matter of administration, approach the government,” it said.

For full article, click here

Rajnath assures action on promulgation of ordinance

Pressing for an ordinance for conducting Jallikattu, AIADMK MPs met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who assured them that the Centre will take action so that the Tamil Nadu government could promulgate it in the next few days. The MPs, led by Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M Thambidurai, requested the home minister to intervene to ensure promulgation of an ordinance to end the ban on the conduct of Jallikattu. “The Home Minister has assured us that the file on ordinance will be processed as early as possible so that the ordinance can be promulgated in next two-three days,” Thambidurai told PTI.

Revoke of ban on jallikattu a win-win scenario for O Panneerselvam

“The protesting students at Chennai’s Marina Beach and also at Madurai categorically declared that they would call off their protest only after jallikattu takes place. The protestors refused to heed to the request of senior police officials here to disperse after they read out Panneerselvam’s statement. Panneerselvam said the state government would promulgate an ordinance to conduct jallikattu and urged demonstrators to withdraw their protests. “The student protest is the culmination of the stand taken by the central government on various issues concerning Tamil Nadu like the Cauvery river water sharing, jallikattu,” R Arul, secretary, Pasumai Thayagam, a non-government organisation (NGO),” writes TS Sudhir. Read the full article here

Watch: Ravi Shankar Prasad says Modi govt respects Tamil sentiments

EXCLUSIVE: PM @narendramodi respects the sentiments of Tamil people and Tamil culture, says Union Law Minister @rsprasad to @maryashakil pic.twitter.com/puFZrhSJPX

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 20, 2017

Pro-jallikattu protests reach Mumbai

Mumbai: People make human chain to protest in support of #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/PlErCiJKkx

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

DMK blames Tamil Nadu state govt for ’not doing enough’

DMK president MK Stalin, throwing the party’s weight firmly behind the pro-jallikattu protestors, has hit out against the AIADMK-led Tamil Nadu government for not doing more

Normal life in Pondicherry hit by bandh in support of jallikattu

​Normal life was hit in Puducherry by the bandh called by various Tamil outfits and students’ organisations in support of holding the banned Jallikattu event, to which various political parties, including ruling Congress, have extended support. All private inter-state and intra-state bus services, autorickshaws and contract carriages kept off the roads. State transport buses operated skeletal services. Vegetable and fish vending stalls, jewellery shops, tea stalls, hotels and other shops and establishments downed shutters. Cinema houses too suspended morning and noon shows. However medical shops, electricity and water supply was not affected as they were exempt from the bandh.

Panneerselvam to inaugurate jallikattu event

Vaadivasal will be opened for Jallikattu within a day or two; I will inaugrate Jallikattu event - Honourable CM Thiru.O.Panneerselvam.

— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) January 20, 2017

Ordinance draft bill may be ready by evening, says Panneerselvam

By evening we expect the ordinance draft will be sent for consent of the President: TN CM O. Panneerselvam #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/QYYaegLWY8

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

Centre promises swift action

In 2011 bull was added in list of performing animals if they didn't do that we wouldn't have been sitting here: MoS Anil Dave #jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

Centre preparing amendment to Prevention of Cruelty Act

Union Environment Minister Anil Dave says the Centre is preparing amendments to the Prevention of Cruelty Act, and a clear solution to the jallikattu row will be ready in “a day or two”. Also assures that values of Tamil Nadu state and Tamil people will be protected.

​If we can eat animals, why does it matter how we treat them?

“Many traditions, across all religions in India have undergone a change over a period of time to keep up with the changing times. For example, there is no e-darshan on television for senior citizens who cannot make the pilgrimage to holy shrines. Prasadam (sacred food) is now delivered via the postal service. Especially in Tamil Nadu, where barriers of gender and caste have been broken with respect to temple entry and priesthood. Culture constantly undergoes reform and changes depend on the context of the society concerned. In a country like India with a very strong backbone of animal rights jurisprudence and activism, originally spearheaded by the likes of Rukmini Devi Arundale who founded the Animal Welfare Board of India, it is sad that in the name of culture practices like jallikattu continue to be defended,” writes Ajay Kumar. Read the full piece here

DMK workers to launch day-long fast

Chennai: DMK workers to go on 1 day fasting-protest tomorrow.DMK working president MK Stalin to lead protest in Valluvar Kottam #jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

AIADMK leaders to meet Pranab Mukherjee

AIADMK MPs to meet President Pranab Mukherjee in New Delhi, to discuss the issue of jallikattu ban with him

Jallikattu will take place in a couple of days, assures M Thambi Durai

Jallikattu will happen in Tamil Nadu in a couple of days - Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M. Thambi Durai.

— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) January 20, 2017

Assamese protesters seek revoke of ban on Bulbuli fights

“Seeing the momentum that protests against the ban on jallikattu has picked up in Tamil Nadu, people from Assam are now demanding that the Supreme Court lifts the ban on nightingale fights that take place in the northeastern state during the harvest festival Magh Bihu also known as Bhogali Bihu.”

Read the full article here

Protests reach Jantar Mantar

Protesters gather in support of #jallikattu at Delhi's Jantar Mantar pic.twitter.com/HfOeUU9HS9

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

Tamil identity has been a deep fault-line for at least half a century

“There is no doubt that animal rights must be protected. It is the sign of a civilised society. The converse must be borne in mind, however. Through history, blood sport ?— and other sorts of power — play, including gender domination — have been the norm in various societies in various ways…Only the naive and foolish would be oblivious to the extent to which alternative cultural frames have gained mind-space over the past quarter century, and the rapidity with which those fames are gaining political ground across the world," writes David Devadas. Read the full article here

Courts must view public sentiment with more sympathy

“However, the reaction cannot be expected to be the same when the entire festival is scrapped to deal with a minor problem. The assault is then directly on the religious or other sentiment of people. That exactly is the case with jallikattu. Locals consider the sport as part of their history, a tradition running for over centuries. They would accept if there are rules to stop unwelcome aberrations such as torturing the animals. Like loud speakers in festivals this practice is not central to the occasion. Activists of Peta and the court should have focused on this aspect instead of going for a ban jallikattu itself. A solution akin to that in the case of Dahi Handi in Maharashtra would have been apt,” writes Akshaya Mishra. Read the full article here

Tamil Nadu protests not to stage bull-fights, but to safeguard cultural autonomy

“Had it been just the love for a sport played once a year in some rural pockets of the state, tens of thousands of people wouldn’t have poured on to the streets demanding an ordinance to neutralise the Supreme Court Court ban. When they are told that a practice that’s closely identified with their nationalism is illegal, they find it an assault on their identity. And, as it has happened earlier, such a threat often comes with the fear of invasion, compromise of sovereignty and loss of ethnic pride," writes G Pramod Kumar. Read the full article here

Owaisi connects jallikattu with Uniform Civil Code

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi says the massive jallikattu protests prove that Uniform Civil Code cannot be implemented in India.

Soli Sorabjee not in favour of jallikattu protests

Such protests should be given up, heavens are not going to fall. SC is a proper forum to approach: Soli Sorabjee,Former AG #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/TYhxUCFsLL

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

Jallikattu prtotests reach Delhi | News18

Live: दिल्ली तक पहुंचा जल्लीकट्टू का बवाल, SC नहीं सुनाएगा एक हफ्ते तक फैसलाhttps://t.co/v3Xo97MIUC#jallikattu

— News18 Hindi (@HindiNews18) January 20, 2017

Jallikattu protests: People hold dharna in Coimbatore

Tamil Nadu: People hold 'dharna' in support of #Jallikattu in Coimbatore pic.twitter.com/MGR4ngfqU5

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

DMK president MK Stalin released

Chennai: DMK Working President MK Stalin, who was taken into preventive custody for halting a train, has been released #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

BJP claims it’s the ‘only party’ to stand up for Tamil rights

Jallikattu : The timeline and facts.

BJP & BJP alone has stood by the people of Tamil Nadu & defended their rights to celebrate Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/zMdahyYu65

— BJP (@BJP4India) January 19, 2017

Panneerselvam promises to hold jallikattu in 2 days

There are full chances that Jallikattu will be organised within 1-2 days, therefore we urge protesters to withdraw protests immediately - CM

— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) January 20, 2017

AR Rahman to break fast at 6.14 pm

DMK wants all-party meet

DMK leader Kanimozhi has said the party has requested the state government to permit an all-party meet on enactment of an emergency law to tackle the jallikatty issue.

Centre in talks with TN govt, says Mukul Rohatgi

#BREAKING -- The Centre and the Tamil Nadu government are in talks to find a way out on #Jallikattu issue, AG Mukul Rohatgi tells SC

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 20, 2017

SC freezes verdict by one week

The apex court has agreed to the Centre’s plea asking the SC to defer its verdict by one week

DMK protest turns violent

DMK workers break barricades, halt a train at Chennai Egmore railway station in support of #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/6Ujxdbp4q5

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

DMK protests spread to other railway stations

From Mambalam, DMK party workers, led by Kanimozhi, have made their way to Egmore railway station

Stalin taken into preventive police custody

Chennai: DMK Working President MK Stalin taken into preventive custody for halting a train as protest in support of #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 20, 2017

DMK holds ‘rail roko’ protest

DMK party workers launch ‘rail roko’ protest at Mambalam railway station in Chennai. Party chief MK Stalin also present, reports news agency ANI

Chennai: Mobile torchlight protest at Marina Beach over ban imposed on #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/Ct9Kk25z4D

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

AG said clearly that ordinance can be passed by the state Govt but till now TN CM is silent: DMK leader MK Stalin #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/XNp4BJ1qy7

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

As the leader of opposition, I also asked for Assembly Session but no answer; so tomorrow we will be holding rail roko protest: MK Stalin

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

DMK announces statewide rail roko agitation tomorrow in TN, ask Centre to promulgated ordinance and condemn its inaction. #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

What is #JalliKattu? What is the whole controversy all about?
Here is an explainer #Video to decode it. pic.twitter.com/z1bKJC3uvI

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 19, 2017

AIADMK MPs delegation led by Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker M. Thambidurai to meet Home Minister Rajnath Singh tomorrow at 12 PM.

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

#JallikattuFight SC cannot say that State does not have the power to make a law: Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi to CNN-News18 #TamilsVsPETA

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 19, 2017

#JallikattuFight -- Jallikattu is a local sport & it is deep rooted in culture of Tamil Nadu: Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi to CNN-News18

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 19, 2017

Students staging a rail roko protest against State Government and Union Government over the ban on Jallikattu in Salem on Thursday.

Tamil Nadu wants to tame a marauding bull but Modi promises only drought relief

In the cacophony around the Tamil nadu Chief Minister’s meeting with PM Modi regarding the ban on ancient bull-taming sport, another matter of key importance got left behind. 

Panneerselvam also spoke to the Prime Minister about the plight of farmers reeling under the effects of severe drought. Modi, meanwhile may have denied an ordinance but he did assure the state government of Centre’s assistance on easing the drought situation.

#JallikattuFight Central govt failed to take a stand;Govt cannot ignore sentiments of TN people:Ex-Justice Katju to CNN-News18 #TamilsVsPETA

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 19, 2017

Watch: Pro-jallikattu protests spread beyond India as Tamil diaspora in foriegn nations came out in support of the sport

#WATCH Protest against ban on Jallikattu goes global…Indians stage demonstrations on Melbourne and London streets-A Report #MakkalMovement pic.twitter.com/Kq9DJfUPFj

— TIMES NOW (@TimesNow) January 19, 2017

Collector of Chennai to visit Marina Beach

District Collector of Chennai city will shortly visit the Marina Beach to review the administrative arrangements their, according to Times Now.

DMK calls for all party meet as protests intensify after CM’s meet with PM Modi ‘failed’

DMK leader Stalin has urged the Tamil Nadu government to hold an all-party meeting and also convene an emergency special assembly session on Friday, according to The Times of India .

The report states that the Opposition parties and the protesters felt “disappointed” after Chief Minister Panneerselvam failed to get assurance from the Prime Minister on an ordinance to allow jallikattu.

“Placards with Modi’s portrait struck down were distributed among the crowd on Marina Beach+ . Protesters shouted slogans against Modi, Panneerselvam, AIADMK general secretary VK Sasikalaa+ and Union Minister for child and women development Maneka Gandhi among others,” the report reads.

PETA may take legal route if Centre brings ordinance

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India on Thursday said it may take the legal route if the Centre brings an ordinance to enable the conduct of jallikattu or continue its campaign to create awareness against the holding of the bull-taming sport in Tamil Nadu.

The official said bulls belong to the “prey” category and do not cause harm even if left on the roads. “They adopt a fight or flight behaviour only when they are agitated. Agitation can only happen when they are experiencing pain, fear or injury,” he said.

With inputs from PTI

Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce to observe statewide bandh on Friday

The Tamil Nadu Chamber of Commerce have announced that they would down shutters and participate in the statewide bandh on Friday if the Centre does not promulgate an ordinance on Jallikattu, according to The Times of India

Students protesting against Union Government and State Government over the ban on Jallikattu in Coimbatore on Thursday.

AR Rahman to fast on Friday to support “the spirit of Tamil Nadu”

I'm fasting tomorrow to support the spirit of
Tamilnadu!

— A.R.Rahman (@arrahman) January 19, 2017

SC distances itself from massive pro-jallikattu protests

The Supreme Court today preferred to stay away from the pro-Jallikattu protests across Tamil Nadu and said the issue of protecting the agitating supporters of the bull-taming sport can be raised before the Madras High Court.

Advocate N Rajaraman, who mentioned the plea before the bench, said the protestors should not be assaulted like the Ramlila Maidan incident of 2011 where  Baba Ramdev supporters were lathicharged by police.

He said the court should take suo motu cognizance of the development and provide relief to the pro-Jallikattu agitators.

The bench, however, asked the petitioner to approach the High Court for relief.

With inputs from PTI

People protest at Marina beach for 36 straight hours, set 5 pm deadline for govt

According to a report in NDTV, pro-jallikattu protesters amassed at marina beach have given the state government a deadline of 5pm to make some concrete announcement about the issue. The demonstartions demanding reintroduction of the banned sport have been going on since 38 hours. The police on Tuesday night even cut the power supply around the area but the unrelenting protesters continued to camp at the beach using their Mobile phones’ flashlights.

Visuals from Chennai’s Marina beach where thousands have been protesting since three days in support of jallikattu

Chennai: People gather in huge numbers to protest in support of #jallikattu at Marina Beach pic.twitter.com/J6CtWzxjBQ

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Lawyers to boycott court on Friday in support of jallikattu

The Madras High Court Advocates Association on Thursday announced boycott of the courts on Friday in support of state wide protests demanding a lifting ban on Jallikattu, according to PTI.

Tamilian’s from abroad protest in solidarity with pro-jallikattu protesters in Tamil Nadu

According to Times Now, the Tamil community in London and Melbourne also held a peaceful demonstration in front of the Indian Embassies in the two cities to express solidarity with the massive pro-jallikattu protests being held in India.

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss detained in Delhi for protesting outside PM’s residence

PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss was on Thursday detained by Delhi Police after he protested outside the Prime Minister’s official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, Delhi in support of jallikattu.

The former Union Minister had sought an appointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi for submitting a representation in favour of the popular bull-taming sport.

As the appointment was not given, Ramadoss sat on the road outside the Prime Minister’s residence to protest, according to ANI.

With inputs from IANS

PMK MP Anbumani Ramadoss sits in support of #Jallikattu outside PM residence at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, Delhi pic.twitter.com/faQupm2g0g

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

PM Modi says jallikattu culturally significant but remains non-committal on ordinance

Modi told O Panneerselvam, who met him on Thursday, that he fully understood and respected the sentiments of Tamil Nadu people on the Jallikattu issue.

However, after the Chief Minister pressed for immediate steps for promulgation of an ordinance, the Prime Minister told him that the Supreme Court was yet to give its verdict on the notification of the government on the issue but the Centre would support any steps taken by the state government on this.

“While appreciating the cultural significance of Jallikattu, the Prime Minister observed that the matter is at present sub-judice,” the PMO said after the meeting.

With inputs from PTI

Chess Champion Vishwanathan Anand voices support for pro-Jallikattu protests

My state rises again. In unison . In peace. Proud to be a #tamizhanda.Genext here are modern yet culturally rooted. #JusticeforJallikattu

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) January 19, 2017

#jallikattu is a cultural symbol . Respect it. Im all for animal rights but here that is not the point.tradition & livelihood are .

— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) January 19, 2017

Its not a protest, it is a revolution.Voice should reach Centre and they should pass the ordinance: Kollywood actor Vishal on #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/VFTeZ3rCh2

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Jallikattu the sport of the brave, we want emergency ordinance: Panneerselvam

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam addressed reporters and said that he had met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and asked him to pass an emergency ordinance.

“We need to bring an emergrency ordinance,” said the Tamil Nadu chief minister. “I have met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We all want an emergency ordinance to be brought for jallikattu.”

“PM Modi said he gives highest importance to cultural values of the state. He assured he will extend full support to us,” ANI further quoted him as saying.

“In addition to this, Tamil Nadu is also facing drought. This has caused immense pain and misery to Tamil Nadu,” he said. “We requested the Centre for drought-relief measures. We have requested the Centre to sanction Rs 32,000 crore for drought relief.”

“Jallikattu is the sport of the brave,” he said.

Gave letter to PM saying that ban on #jallikattu must be lifted and Centre should draft an ordinance on it: O Panneerselvam,TN CM pic.twitter.com/FhCaA3yuy1

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Also spoke to PM on drought conditions, there is drought in 50% of the state: O Panneerselvam,TN CM pic.twitter.com/e5DpIDU0Fk

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Chennai: Youth activists protesting in support of #jallikattu at Chennai's Marina Beach pic.twitter.com/vmKvgCT4dU

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Slaughter houses should be banned, not jallikattu: Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

“Pongal is bigger than Diwali in Tamil Nadu,” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar told CNN-News18, adding that slaughter houses should be banned in the country, not jallikattu.

The politics over jallikattu

The Puducherry unit of DMK extended support to the bandh call given by various Tamil outfits seeking restoration of jallikattu and to ban Peta.

The bandh called by the outfits will be observed in Puducherry for 12 hours from 6 am on Friday.

In a release in Puducherry, the DMK Puducherry unit convener R Siva announced that his party backed the call for bandh as Tamils’ rights and traditional sport should suffer no hiccups.

Various organisations and political parties including Janata Dal (United) and the CPI have expressed their support to the bandh.

The ruling Congress has already announced its decision to back the bandh call for restoration of jallikattu (bull taming sport). — PTI

Modi assures state govt of Centre’s support

A central team would be deputed to Tamil Nadu shortly.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 19, 2017

Jallikattu matter is sub judice, says PM Modi

While appreciating the cultural significance of Jallikattu, the Prime Minister observed that the matter is presently sub-judice.

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 19, 2017

Even if there is a revocation on jallikattu, Tamil people should ensure sport is strictly regulated

“The Supreme Court, in its judgement banning jallikattu, goes into great detail about the torture that the bulls are meted out during play – instances of lemons being squeezed into the bulls’ eyes to blind them, chilli powder rubbed on to their genitals, bulls being fed liquor and even cases of the animal having its tail bitten. While there might be more than a kernel of truth in these claims, and while such practices are indeed inhumane and deserving of the greatest condemnation, the argument made by the protestors is that jallikattu, unlike the matador style taming of the bulls (which involves deliberate maiming and killing) wasn’t designed to be cruel. The bulls, for the most part, they say, are considered to be animals of the temple, and are revered and worshipped. Therefore, in their belief, the Supreme Court could have been more measured in its approach, by placing stricter regulations on how the sport ought to he played, as opposed to an outright ban, which, to them, hits at the heart of the state’s cultures and traditions,” writes Lavanya Mohan. Read her full article here:

Jallikattu: Humanity must endeavour to uphold principles of kindness, not fight for blood sport

“The arc of humanity has always moved from the retrograde to modern. The endeavour of humanity has been to discard what is cruel, unethical and repressive to the universally accepted code of equality of rights and a society based on love and kindness. So, why should Jallikattu stay? Just because the blood sport has been in vogue for ages — some claim it is 2500 years old — it doesn’t entitle Tamilians to a lifetime of torturing bulls for a public spectacle. Festivals are meant to be a celebration of life, an ode to nature and God. If a practice that is cruel to animals — as much part of the nature and deserving of god’s love — has devoured the original identity of a festival, it must go.  Tradition, hypocritical definitions of pride and honour could not ensure perpetuation of Sati, purdah, child marriage and many other social evils that were justified in the name custom of custom. The Supreme Court has taken the right decision by outlawing jallikattu. It should stay firm and not give in to arm-twisting and emotional blackmail by people who want to torture a herbivore to prove their machismo, cultural identity or satiate their blood lust," writes Sandipan Sharma. Read the full article here:

Holiday in Tamil Nadu

The state government in Tamil Nadu has declared Thursday a holiday. With schools and colleges remaining shut, numbers of protestors at Marina Beach expected to swell.

Panneerselvam’s media address shortly

Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam, in Delhi to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will address the media at 11.30.

Public protest at Marina beach: Supreme Court asked the petitioner to approach the concerned Court #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

SC refuses to hear a plea filed which sought that apex court should hear the matter pertaining to public protest at Marina beach #Jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

SC refuses to hear plea

The Supreme Court has refused to hear a plea seeking a hearing in the apex court pertaining to public protests at Chennai’s Marina beach

Sasikala urges Peta ban

AIADMK chief secretary Sasikala Natarajan has said the party will adopt all legal measures to ban People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta).

Tamil Nadu CM O Panneerselvam urges Prime Minister Narendra Modi to promulgate an ordinance permitting jallikattu

Honourable CM Thiru.O.Panneerselvam meets PM Modi at his residence and urges him to promulgate Ordinance to resume Jallikattu.

— AIADMK (@AIADMKOfficial) January 19, 2017

Delhi: Chief Minister O.Pannerselvam arrives at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to urge ordinance on #Jallikattu. pic.twitter.com/g6NPJFXMrF

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

Pro-jallikattu protests spread to Delhi

Delhi: Youth activists protest outside Tamil Nadu House in support of the bull taming sport #jallikattu pic.twitter.com/2wlZ0DJ4Kk

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

“As the day progressed on 18 January, young people from all walks of life spilt onto the streets, from students to IT professionals to farmers, including many, many women. As we speak, this has become too big for the “national media” to ignore, and since this is not Kashmir from where independent media and telecom connectivity can be blacked out at will, “national media” wants to explain to the ‘rest of India’, why are Tamils angry and why are they protesting? While they ask that, they are quick to add that the protests are apolitical. Nothing could be farther from truth,” writes Garga Chatterjee.

Read the full article here .

Social media played key role in stir

#Jallikattu supporters in large numbers at Chennai's Marina Beach garner support through social media. pic.twitter.com/1Ohup6on3I

— ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2017

School, Colleges to remain shut in Tamil Nadu

According to Times Now, schools and colleges in the state will remain shut on Thursday on account of the statewide protests in support of Jallikattu.

Tamil Nadu CM leaves for Delhi, will meet PM, President on Thursday

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Pannerselvam has left from Chennai for New Delhi, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Modi and President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday, according to India Today TV.

Tamil Nadu CM positive Centre will yield to people’s ‘justified demands’

I have conveyed the justified demands of the people. I have faith that the centre will deliver: TN CM O. Panneerselvam #JallikattuFight pic.twitter.com/yYV7qRCkjF

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 18, 2017

Since Jayalalithaa's time, we have got our demands from Centre. We will also raise the issue of drought relief: TN CM O. Panneerselvam

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 18, 2017

Protesters clean their own trash, set precedent by sustained apolitical peaceful protest
 

The kind of mass movement being witnessed at the Marina Beach in Chennai, and across Tamil Nadu, is unprecedented in many ways. The movement, that media reports are comparing with the Arab Spring, has so far remained apolitical.

The protesters refused to meet politicians who came to the beach, according to IANS. The support for the movement spread entirely through social media and word of mouth. The protest was entirely impromptu.

At the Marina, the thousands braving the heat initially found getting food difficult. But with appeals for food sent through social media, food packets started arriving along with volunteers.

Meanwhile, according to a report in The News Minute , as the trash started accumulating on the beach, volunteers from within the folds of the crowd staretd coordinating and cleaning up the beach. Garbage bags were distributed and people helped gather the garbage at one spot so that it is easier for the Chennai corporation to collect it.

Tamil Nadu’s ‘Arab Spring’ set to enter third day

Tamil Nadu experienced a sort of `Arab Spring’ with thousands of youths massed on the Marina beach on Wednesday for a second day and set to continue the protest in support of Jallikattu.

They rejected Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam’s appeal to end the mass protest. He promised to personally press Prime Minister Narendra Modi to issue an ordinance to allow Jallikattu.

The demonstration began on Tuesday morning after police arrested Jallikattu supporters in Alanganallur town in Madurai district.

After police disconnected the power supply to the Marina Beach, the young crowd used mobile phone lights at night to continue their protests on Tuesday Night. The protests are likely to continue through Wednesday night as well.

With inputs from IANS

Centre’s 2016 notification on Jallikattu balances sport, animal care: Javadekar

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said on Wednesday that the Centre’s January 2016 notification, which is under legal scrutiny allowed the traditional sport while accommodating animal care concerns.

The Centre, on 8 January, 2016, had issued a notification lifting ban on Jallikattu with certain restrictions, which has been stayed by the Supreme Court.

Javadekar, who earlier held the Environment and Forests portfolio, remained positive that the Centre’s notification will stand judicial scrutiny as it was a very “balanced” solution taking care of both, animal rights and people’s sentiment.

Protests to continue through the night for the second day

According to Times Now’s ground report, the protesters are camping at Marina beach through the night for the second day at stretch.

The Tamil Nadu chief minister had earlier urged the people to call off the protests and assured them that the government will use all the legal options available to reintroduce the sport.

However, the TV channel report states that the protesters have already camped at the beach and are not ready to withdraw their protest until concrete steps are taken to meet their demand.

Police tries to disperse crowds, protesters unrelenting

Tamil Nadu: Police deployment in Chennai as protests in support of #Jallikattu continue pic.twitter.com/0xNcf8jsSm

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Violence is inherent to sports like Jallikattu: Peta activist

A Peta activist, speaking to CNN-News 18, clarified the animal rights organisation’s stand on the issue. Countering the pro-Jallikattu argument that the bull is brought up with love and care, the activist said that the sport is inherently violent towards the animal.

Several voices coming in favour of the sport have been demanding rigorous regulations to weed out “specific cases of animal cruelty.” However, the Peta activist felt that it is impossible to take out violence from the sport.

“Bull is not anatomically inclined to run. It will run only when it fears something. So to instill that fear you will have to poke them, jab them, break their bones so in that sense violence is inherent to the sport. You cannot take violence out of Jallikattu,” he said.

Sasikala promises to ‘rein in Peta’ amid massive groundswell against animal rights organisation
 

AIADMK cheif VK Sasikala promised to adopt all legal measures to ban Peta, while hitting out at her opponents for giving legal recognition to the animal rights group.

“PETA, an organisation based abroad is targeting Tamil culture. It was the DMK and Congress government that gave legal recognition to PETA by adding the bull in the performance animals list,” The News Minute quoted her as saying.

Centre should promulgate ordinance revoking ban on #jallikattu. We will adopt all legal measures to ban PETA: Sasikala Natarajan, AIADMK

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Watch: Tamil actor Vijay’s message in support of Jallikattu, actor says PETA must be sent back home

#JusticeforJallikattu pic.twitter.com/VAiD8h9cu2

— Vijay (@actorvijay) January 17, 2017

Ashwin Ravichandran bats for Jallikattu, praises youth for peaceful movement

Scenes of peaceful protest all around TN.Unity, peace and resolve will show our plea in the right light.#peacefulprotests #jallikattu

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) January 18, 2017

Watch: Protests gain momentum across Tamil Nadu

#TNvsPETA #JalliKatu battle spreads across Tamil Nadu. @Zakka_Jacob pic.twitter.com/l5M6RmLH74

— News18 (@CNNnews18) January 18, 2017

Tamil actor Nayanthara bats for Jallikattu

 Southern film actress Nayanthara on Wednesday came out in support of Jallikattu and the youngsters who are protesting against the ban on the ancient and popular bull-taming sport, celebrated during Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu.

“The power of youth is proven again. What Tamil Nadu has been witnessing for the past few days in support of Jallikattu is an unprecedented history. It indeed makes me proud to be part of this state,” Nayanthara, who is one of the leading Tamil film stars, said in a statement.

With inputs from IANS

#JusticeforJallikattu Let us all raise our voice and the slogan ' WE WANT JALLIKATTU ' heard all through the country. pic.twitter.com/g6qWxOXFPu

— Nayanthara✨ (@NayantharaU) January 18, 2017

‘Jallikattu uprising indicates failure of political class in understanding the Tamil sentiment’

TS Sudhir, in his Firstpost article, argues that “outpouring of the anger and anguish” that is being witnessed at the Marina Beach simply indicates the failure of political class in understanding the Tamil sentiment.

“Over the past 48 hours, the jallikattu uprising has brought this part of Chennai, abutting the beach, to a standstill. It is as if Tamil Nadu wants to tell the rest of mainland India that its feelings matter,” his article reads.

Tamil Nadu CM urges youth to call off protests, says will meet PM Modi to urge ordinance

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O.Pannerselvam to meet PM Modi tomorrow to urge ordinance on #Jallikattu: AIADMK

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Chief Minister O.Panneerselvam requests youth and protesters to give up their protest: AIADMK #jallikattu

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

AIADMK chief VK Sasikala urges Centre to promulgate ordinance allowing Jallikattu

Centre should promulgate ordinance revoking ban on #jallikattu. We will adopt all legal measures to ban PETA: Sasikala Natarajan, AIADMK

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Man buries himself in sand in support of #jallikattu on Marina beach in Chennai pic.twitter.com/JVB3qmsXkX

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Images of protests from Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu: People in Chennai continue their protests in favour of bull-taming sport #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/ef3mn1wyHG

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

People’s force will be a game changer: Actor Khushbu on Jallikattu

History spks volumes of pple's force bng d game changer of various countries..let's mke history..let's rewrite r history #SupportJallikattu

— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) January 18, 2017

‘Makar Sankranti, much like Bakr-Id, is a day of cruel animal slaughter throughout India’

Union Minister for Women & Child Development and a noted animal rights activist Maneka Gandhi, in her Firstpost article, highlights how animal cruelty takes place on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, not just in the form of Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, but across India. Read her take on the issue here .

Actor Suriya voices support for pro-Jallikattu protests

Latest amid the voices, in support of Jallikattu, coming from the Tamil film industry is of actor Suriya Sivakumar, who says the sport is a part of Tamil identity.

Lending his support to what he called the “people’s movement,” he said that the laws are made for the people and not vice versa. He put out a statement on his twitter account supporting the ancient sport.

#Alanganallur #JusticeforJallikattu pic.twitter.com/XJSKPaAjHy

— Suriya Sivakumar (@Suriya_offl) January 17, 2017

Protesters say introduce regulations but don’t ban our cultural sport

According a ground report by CNN-News 18, the protesters camping at Chennai’s Marina beach are predominantly young, educated people who have come out in support of the sport without any political backing. The news channel’s report states that people in Chennai are appealing to the government to introduce new regulations to weed out instances of animal cruelty. However, they are insistent that an outright ban on the sport is an insult to the Tamil pride.

In Pictures: Massive protests held in Madurai against Peta and SC ban on Jallikattu

Protests against ban on Jallikattu rage across Tamil Nadu

According to CNN-News18 report, the massive crowd gathered at Marina Beach in Chennai is one of the smaller congregations of people out on streets to protest the ban against the ancient sport.

The report states that protests across Tamil Nadu in cities like Coimbatore, Madurai, Thanjavur are taking to streets to demand the lifting of ban on Jallikattu.

In Pictures: Mass protests against animal rights organisation Peta and against the Supreme Court’s ban on Jallikattu

Tamil Nadu: Huge crowd at protest in support of #jallikattu in Chennai pic.twitter.com/Z0Jo6pYkxK

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

How Kamal Haasan depicted Jallikattu on screen

Actor Kamal Hassan has supported Jallikattu stating that he was an avid fan of the sport. Haasan said that people should not confuse Jallikattu with bull fighting in Spain, where the animal is often killed. He said that all those who feel the bull taming sport should be banned, should ideally give up on biryani, too.

The Tamil actor has he came up with a film that not only reinvigorated the artist within but also immortalised Jallikattu, an ancient sport that is almost 5,000 years old. Read Gautam Chinatmani’s analysis on how Hassan made a comeback in his career while immortalizing the sport on screen through his film Virumandi.

AIADMK MPs to meet President, PM on Jallikattu tomorrow

According to CNN-News18, the ruling party’s MPs are scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday to seek their intervention against the Supreme Court ban on Jallikattu. The AIADMK MPs will also submit memorandum on the ancient sport and request promulgation of an ordinance to allow the sport.

Bring in whatever rules but jallikattu must be held: Rajnikanth

The Tamil Superstar has time and again come out in support of the ancient Tamil sport that the state looks at as part of the Tamil identity.

“Bring in whatever rules but jallikattu must be held to keep up the traditions of our Tamil culture,” Rajnikanth had said.

Read hear the superstar’s take on the bull-taming sport.

Youth camp overnight at Marina beach, demand ban on Peta

The protest started on Tuesday morning after hearing the news about the arrest of jallikattu protestors in Alanganallur in Madurai district, which was carried out ater into the night.

Following this, the Chennai Police tried to disperse the crowd by disconnecting the power supply at Marina Beach, but the protestors continued their protest with the help of their mobile phone lights in the night.

The protests picked up further momentum on Wednesday, as word spread and more people thronged the Marina Beach and raised pro-jallikattu slogans.

A law student hailing from Chennai spoke to CNN-News18, “Jallikattu is part of our tradition and it represents the Tamil pride. If anything then the governemnt should ban Peta."

Tamil Nadu: People gather in huge numbers at Chennai's Marina Beach in support of #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/r6gyUpxIkO

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017

Congress leader Khushbu supports pro-Jallikattu protests

South Indian film actor and national spokesperson of the Congress party, Khushbu Sundar has extended her support to the pro-Jallikattu protests being held state-wise. She said that the power of the youth should not be under estimated.

The power of youth hs nvr failed..the sea of emotions,valour n strength sn among the youngsters 4 #jallikattu shows a new era is revolution.

— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) January 18, 2017

I stand wid the young n all those who support #jallikattu..Mahatma said "Be the change u want 2 see"..let's bring in the change v wnt 2 see.

— KhushbuSundar (@khushsundar) January 18, 2017

‘Jallikattu part of Tamil pride: Gautami’

Popular Tamil film actress Gautami has said that things have gone beyond a point where the government cannot deny what is happening. Asserting that Jallikattu defines Tamil traditions, she insisted that the ancient sport should be protected rather than banned.

Tamil actors extend support for Jallikattu

Tamil actors such as Vijay, G.V Prakash Kumar and Suriya extended their support for Jallikattu and also voiced against the arrest of those who have demonstrated in support of the ancient and popular bull-taming sport.

Earlier, actors such as Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Simbu had extended their support in favour of the bull-taming sport.

People gather at Chennai's Marina Beach in support of #Jallikattu pic.twitter.com/hT22kdwtyc

— ANI (@ANI) January 18, 2017