The Centre would consider taking steps, including amending laws, to allow Jallikattu (a popular bull taming sport in Tamil Nadu), which has been banned by the Supreme Court, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday said.
“If need be, we will attempt to bring in laws to lift the ban on Jallikattu, Mr. Javadekar, here to participate the Tamil Nadu unit BJP state executive meeting, told reporters.
>The Supreme Court had last year banned using bulls for Jallikattu events or bullock-cart races across the country and directed governments and Animal Welfare Board of India to take steps to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals.
The ban on Jallikattu has dampened Pongal festivities in the state, especially in southern districts where it has been a popular event for centuries, and there has been a demand for facilitating its conduct.
Replying to a question, Mr Javedakar said the Centre had not received any proposal on Megathathu dam across Cauvery in Karnataka or construction of a new Mullaiperiyar reservoir in Kerala.
Tamil Nadu is opposing both these projects on the ground that they would affect the state’s water share from these two inter-state rivers.
“We see the water issue as national issue and act accordingly. We would not give preference to one state’s recommendation on water issues”, he said.
He said the Centre was implementing several welfare and social security schemes, including insurance and pension, for the weaker sections of the people.
He said BJP would do well in the assembly polls in Tamil Nadu, due early next year.
Union Minister Pon Radhkrishnan, BJP national secretary and party in charge in Tamil Nadu Muralidhar Rao are among those participating in the meeting.
