Jallikattu: Protest continues in Tamil Nadu, CM leaves for Delhi

Protests have been reported in other parts of the state.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadui Chief Minister O.Panneerselvam has left for Delhi where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday over the issue.

The AIADMK tweeted: "Honourable CM Thiru.O.Panneerselvam leaves to Delhi to meet PM Modi."

The party had earlier posted: "Honourable Chief Minister Thiru O.Pannerselvam to meet PM Modi tomorrow to urge ordinance on Jallikattu."

The party has supported the demand to allow the festival to be organized in the state again.

Animal rights organisation People for Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA had earlier lobbied to ensure a ban on the Jallikattu festival.

The AIADMK tweeted quoting party supremo Sasikala Natarajan: "Union Government should promulgate ordinance revoking ban on Jallikattu. We will adopt all legal measures to ban PETA."

The state Government on Wednesday held talks with agitators and assured  them of holding the sport.

The Government told the agitators that if required, the matter would be taken up with the President seeking an ordinance allowing the game to take place.

The Supreme Court in May 2014 banned  Jallikattu, traditionally held as part of the four-day Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu.

However, politicians of different parties pleaded with the Centre to amend the concerned law so that Jallikattu can be conducted while stars like Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan and Simbu  extended their support in favour of  the sport.

Image: Wikimedia Commons