The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has firmly ruled that Jallikattu—at least at its most prominent venues—is not a private affair. Rejecting claims by self-styled village bodies, the Court held that individuals or local committees cannot assert an independent right to organise the event at Avaniyapuram, one of Tamil Nadu’s most renowned Jallikattu arenas.
The Court underlined that Jallikattu at Avaniyapuram, Alanganallur and Palamedu has grown far beyond a local festival. These venues, it said, host events of international stature, with the State playing a direct and central role in their conduct. As a result, the responsibility for organising them rests squarely with government authorities.
Referring to the Tamil Nadu Regulation of Jallikattu Act, 2009, and the operational guidelines issued by the Animal Welfare Department, the Bench noted that the events are conducted by revenue officials. Villagers do participate—but only as members of an advisory committee that assists the administration, not as independent organisers.
This observation proved decisive in a petition filed by a local resident who sought official permission and police protection to conduct Jallikattu at Avaniyapuram on his own committee’s behalf. The Court declined to issue any such directions, making it clear that no parallel or private structure could claim control over the event.
The petitioner had also raised concerns about representation, arguing that the advisory committee should reflect all sections of the village community. In response, the State assured the Court that the committee would be formed in line with past practice and existing judicial guidelines. With this assurance on record, the Court closed the case without granting relief.
Reinforcing its stance, the Bench stressed that the special status of Jallikattu at these iconic locations leaves little room for private claims. Given the scale, visibility and significance of the events, the State itself must remain the organiser.
In short, the Court made its position unmistakable: Jallikattu at Avaniyapuram will continue under State supervision, following the statutory framework—and no individual or village committee can step into the organiser’s role.
