Tamil Nadu BJP Spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad has called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to fulfill commitments made to Jallikattu players, specifically regarding government employment. Prasad emphasized the need for immediate action beyond mere election promises to support these athletes.
He stressed the importance of delivering on assurances, such as providing government jobs to exceptional Jallikattu players, to avoid further unmet pledges by the ruling government. Prasad urged the issuance of clear government orders by the end of the Tamil month of Thai Pongal in 2026 for the appointment of top-performing players to suitable positions.
Additionally, Prasad highlighted the necessity of promptly implementing proposed initiatives, including a high-quality treatment facility for bulls and a specialized training center for Jallikattu participants at Alanganallur. He emphasized the importance of executing these projects with transparency and integrity, in accordance with the commitments made.
Recalling the history of the Jallikattu ban, Prasad criticized the past Congress-led UPA government’s decision to include Jallikattu bulls in the protected wildlife schedule. He commended the Narendra Modi-led Central government for swiftly addressing the hurdles and reinstating Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu following public protests.
Prasad also reminded the current DMK government of its pledge during the 2021 Assembly elections to provide a monthly incentive of Rs 1,000 to Jallikattu bull rearers. He urged the immediate implementation of this scheme, along with the release of pending arrears from 2021 to 2026, estimated at around Rs 60,000 per bull rearer. Moreover, he advocated for a comprehensive health insurance scheme for Jallikattu players to ensure their well-being.
Welcoming the state government’s offer of employment in the Animal Husbandry Department, Prasad highlighted the diverse educational backgrounds of Jallikattu participants, including graduates, lawyers, doctors, and engineers. He called for prioritizing qualified players in government departments and encouraged private sector employers to provide preferential opportunities to Jallikattu athletes.
Prasad concluded by emphasizing the cultural significance of Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, stressing the need for tangible support rather than symbolic gestures to preserve the state’s ancient heritage and agricultural traditions.
