The opposition in Tamil Nadu has launched a sharp attack on the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government, accusing it of neglecting the traditional Jallikattu bull rearers and failing to deliver on a key electoral promise. The allegation was made by the deputy leader of the opposition in the state assembly, R B Udhayakumar of the AIADMK.
Broken Promise to the Sons of the Soil
Speaking at a review event in Madurai on Tuesday, Udhayakumar highlighted a specific unfulfilled commitment. He stated that the DMK government has ignored the Jallikattu bull rearers, whom he called the "sons of the soil," by not providing the ₹1,000 assistance per bull that was prominently mentioned in their election manifesto. He questioned whether the ruling party even remembers this promise now as their term is nearing its end.
The event was a booth-wise review of special intensive revision (SIR) work for the Vadipatti north union of the Sholavandan constituency, located in the Madurai suburban west district.
Allegations of Arrogance and Disregard for Tradition
Udhayakumar did not mince words in criticizing the government's overall approach. He remarked that an "arrogant and dictatorial" attitude over the past two to three years has caused discontent not just in Madurai but across Tamil Nadu. He singled out the government's handling of Jallikattu as the "height of agony."
He elaborated on the traditional protocol, noting that historically, local village committees take the lead in organizing the event while the government plays a supportive role. "However, the current government has thrown the local committees and the sons of the soil aside like trash," Udhayakumar alleged. He accused the DMK of conducting Jallikattu as if "they are sitting on a pedestal, thinking they can do anything because power is in their hands."
Call for Transparency and a Future Pledge
The former minister emphasized the need for transparency and neutrality in selecting both bull tamers and bulls for Jallikattu, which he described as "the breath of the Tamil race." This call comes amid ongoing debates about the management and safety of the traditional sport.
Looking ahead, Udhayakumar made a significant political pledge. He asserted that AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami would ensure the conduct of a traditional and safe Jallikattu in 2027, hinting at the party's confidence in returning to power after the next state elections.
The accusations from the senior AIADMK leader underscore the continued political significance of Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, where it is deeply intertwined with cultural identity and rural livelihoods, making it a potent issue for electoral campaigns.
