: The ongoing political tussle in the AIADMK had its impact on the jallikattu held at Alanganallur on Friday. Normally, one would have expected ruling party MLAs and Ministers to hog the limelight in a government-sponsored event. Ironically, it was the Leader of the Opposition M. K. Stalin, who was the centre of attraction.
When the date for the jallikattu was announced, invitations were extended to Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam and AIADMK general secretary V.K. Sasikala, both of whom were expected to participate. But the DMK’s working president, Mr. Stalin, made his presence felt at the event.
For some time, the VIP gallery near the arena gave an impression that it was an event dominated by the DMK with a few party MLAs and senior leaders seated by the side of Mr. Stalin.
He shared pleasantries with Madurai Collector K. Veera Raghava Rao and Union Minister of State for Transport and Shipping Pon. Radhakrishnan who were also present on stage. Mr. Stalin also gave away prizes, which included one sovereign gold coins, to bull tamers and bulls that won during his presence at the event.
Talking to the media, Mr. Stalin, however, said that his presence had no political meaning and he was not here to inaugurate the event. “Jallikattu is happening today because of the protests spearheaded by youngsters with participation from the public across the State. I am grateful to them for that,” he said.
