Even as jallikattu events kick off in various parts of Tamil Nadu, some bull owners and enthusiasts are voicing worries about the perceived lack of transparency in the system for issuing tokens and permissions for bulls to participate. Allegations suggest that the selection process at key venues like Alanganallur, Palamedu, and Avaniyapuram in Madurai lacks objectivity and scientific assessment.
According to critics, officials in charge of approving bulls often rely on subjective judgment rather than clear criteria to assess a bull’s suitability for jallikattu. This approach, they argue, leads to bulls with inadequate capabilities being allowed to join the event. Sources from the State Animal Welfare Board emphasize that the focus is on ensuring animal welfare and the bulls’ medical fitness.
Bull owners are required to register their animals on the official portal, ahd.tn.gov.in/jallikattu, to secure tokens and approval for participation. Despite a high number of registrations, only a fraction of bulls are eventually permitted to take part in Madurai events, raising concerns about the transparency of the approval process. Allegations of subjective assessments and political influence in the approval process have also surfaced.
Officials highlight that jallikattu events are supposed to adhere to specific guidelines, including a limit on the number of bulls allowed and the time frame for the events. However, due to community pressure, permissions are often extended beyond the stipulated limits. The authorities have pledged to review the situation based on feedback from stakeholders.
