Supreme Court upholds Tamil Nadu laws allowing Jallikattu

In a big relief for the governments of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Karnataka, the Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the validity of the traditional bull-taming sport 'Jallikattu' and bullock cart races. In its verdict, the Supreme Court said the states' acts are legally valid. The court also directed the states to strictly ensure the safety and protection of animals under the law. "Cultural heritage borne out by texts and evidence, the court cannot intervene into the matter," the Supreme Court said. The order was pronounced by a five-judge Constitution bench headed by Justice KM Joseph. "Jallikattu", also known as "Eruthazhuvuthal", is a bull-taming sport played in Tamil Nadu as part of the Pongal harvest festival.