First bull race of the season held in Vellore

The recent commencement of the bull racing season in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu, with events in Panamadangi, Sivanathapuram, and Gudalavaripalli, signifies the continuation of a deeply rooted cultural practice in the state. While appearing as a localized event, it is intrinsically linked to a larger national debate concerning tradition, animal welfare, and judicial intervention, making it highly relevant for competitive exam aspirants.

**Background Context and Historical Roots:**

Bull racing, or 'Eruthu Viduthal' as it's locally known in parts of Vellore, is a variant of the more widely recognized 'Jallikattu' (bull-taming) and 'Manjuvirattu' (bull-chasing) popular in other regions of Tamil Nadu. These events are ancient, with historical evidence suggesting their existence for over 2,000 years, often depicted in rock art and seals from the Indus Valley Civilization. Traditionally, these events are held during the Pongal harvest festival (January) and are considered a crucial part of the agrarian lifestyle. They are not merely sports but cultural rituals, symbolizing valor, community bonding, and a way to preserve indigenous cattle breeds. The bulls, often of specific native breeds like Kangayam, Umblachery, and Pulikulam, are revered and cared for throughout the year, with their strength and temperament being a matter of pride for farmers.

**The Controversy and Legal Battles:**

However, these traditional practices have faced significant opposition from animal welfare organizations like PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). They argue that the events involve extreme cruelty to animals, citing instances of bulls being prodded, beaten, having their tails twisted, and being intoxicated, leading to injuries and stress. This led to a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court of India on May 7, 2014, which banned Jallikattu and similar bull-racing events across the country. The Court invoked the **Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960**, stating that these events inherent cruelty and violated the fundamental right to life and personal liberty, which implicitly includes the right to live with dignity and free from cruelty, even for animals, as interpreted through **Article 21** of the Constitution.

**Legislative Response and Revival:**

The 2014 ban sparked widespread protests across Tamil Nadu, particularly in Chennai, where millions gathered to demand the revival of Jallikattu, viewing it as an attack on their cultural identity. In response to this massive public outcry, the Tamil Nadu government enacted the **Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 2017**, which specifically exempted Jallikattu from the provisions of the PCA Act, 1960. This state legislation, passed under the Concurrent List (Entry 17, 'Prevention of Cruelty to Animals'), received presidential assent, effectively allowing the traditional events to resume. This legislative maneuver showcased the power of public sentiment and the intricate balance of federalism in India, where states can legislate on subjects in the Concurrent List, provided they don't contradict central laws or receive presidential assent for such contradictions.

**Key Stakeholders and Significance for India:**

Key stakeholders include the local communities and farmers who see these events as integral to their heritage and economy; the bull owners and participants who invest time and resources; animal welfare organizations advocating for animal rights; the judiciary, which interprets laws and safeguards constitutional principles; and the state and central governments, balancing cultural preservation with legal and ethical considerations.

For India, this issue holds immense significance. It highlights the constant tension between traditional cultural practices and modern ethical standards, particularly concerning animal rights. It also underscores the delicate balance of federalism, where state autonomy in cultural matters often intersects with national laws and judicial pronouncements. Economically, these events support the rearing of indigenous bull breeds, which are vital for sustainable agriculture, and contribute to the rural economy. Socially, they are a powerful symbol of regional identity and pride for the people of Tamil Nadu. Politically, the issue has been a significant vote-bank factor, demonstrating the electoral consequences of decisions impacting deeply held cultural beliefs.

**Constitutional and Policy References:**

Beyond Article 21 and the PCA Act, 1960, other constitutional provisions are relevant. **Article 48**, a Directive Principle of State Policy, calls upon the State to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and to take steps for preserving and improving the breeds. While not directly enforceable, it reflects the state's responsibility towards animal welfare. Furthermore, **Article 51A(g)**, a Fundamental Duty, mandates every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures. This duty often forms the basis for arguments against animal cruelty.

**Future Implications:**

The legal battle is not entirely over. The animal welfare organizations have challenged the Tamil Nadu Amendment Act, 2017, in the Supreme Court, arguing that it circumvents the spirit of the 2014 judgment. The Supreme Court has reserved its judgment on the constitutional validity of the 2017 amendment, meaning the future of Jallikattu and similar events remains under judicial scrutiny. The outcome will set a precedent for how other states might approach similar cultural practices involving animals, and how the judiciary will balance cultural rights with animal welfare concerns in the future. This ongoing debate necessitates a nuanced understanding of law, culture, and ethics for any aspiring civil servant.