Should election promises be fulfilled for Jallikattu warriors before Thai Pongal ends?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Immediate action required on Jallikattu job promises.
- Transparency and integrity in government commitments.
- Significance of Jallikattu to Tamil cultural heritage.
- Implementation of financial incentives for bull rearers.
- Health insurance scheme for Jallikattu players is essential.
Chennai, Jan 19 (NationPress) A.N.S. Prasad, the Tamil Nadu BJP Spokesperson, has called on Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to put an end to political rhetoric and promptly address the long-standing commitments made to the Jallikattu players, especially the promise of government jobs.
In a pointed statement, Prasad emphasized that the Chief Minister's commitment to providing government jobs to top Jallikattu players should not become another unmet promise from the DMK administration.
He insisted that definitive government orders should be enacted before the conclusion of the Tamil month of Thai Pongal in 2026, ensuring that the most successful Jallikattu players from the current season are appointed to appropriate positions.
Additionally, the BJP leader urged the immediate initiation of a proposed premium treatment facility for bulls and a specialized training center for Jallikattu players in Alanganallur, announced with a budget of Rs 2 crore.
"These initiatives must be carried out with integrity and transparency, strictly adhering to the promises made," Prasad stated.
Reflecting on the history of the Jallikattu ban, Prasad noted that it stemmed from a misguided decision by the Congress-led UPA government, which categorized Jallikattu bulls under the protected wildlife schedule.
He pointed out that it was only after significant statewide protests by the Tamil Nadu populace that the situation improved.
"In response to demands during the prior AIADMK government, the Modi-led Central government swiftly removed the barriers, allowing Jallikattu to resume in Tamil Nadu," he remarked.
Prasad also reminded the DMK government of its 2021 Assembly election commitment to provide a monthly incentive of Rs 1,000 to those raising Jallikattu bulls.
He urged immediate implementation of this scheme, along with the disbursement of accrued arrears—estimated to be around Rs 60,000 per bull rearer—from 2021 to 2026.
Furthermore, he advocated for a comprehensive health insurance plan for Jallikattu participants.
While appreciating the state government's announcement regarding employment in the Animal Husbandry Department, Prasad highlighted that Jallikattu participants include professionals such as graduates, lawyers, doctors, and engineers.
He demanded that qualified Jallikattu players receive priority across all government sectors and called for guidelines that encourage private employers to extend preferential hiring opportunities to them.
Prasad concluded by asserting that Jallikattu represents Tamil Nadu's ancient legacy, valor, agricultural heritage, and cultural pride, and should be backed by tangible actions rather than mere symbolic announcements.