Fri Dec 19 05:02:12 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:

Summary:

The Tamil Nadu state government has released a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the conduct of “jallikattu,” the traditional bull-taming sport, in 2026. The SOP outlines responsibilities for various government departments (district administration, animal husbandry, revenue, health, police, fire services), organizers, bull owners, and participants. It covers aspects like video documentation, compliance reports, veterinary checks for bulls (including alcohol abuse), fitness checks for tamers (including drug and alcohol intake), barricading of the arena, and security measures. Jallikattu events are only permitted in government-approved locations, and organizers must obtain prior permission.

News Article:

Tamil Nadu Releases Stringent Guidelines for 2026 Jallikattu Season

TIRUCHI, December 19, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu government has unveiled a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to govern the conduct of “jallikattu,” the traditional bull-taming sport, for the 2026 season. The detailed guidelines, released today, aim to ensure the safe and regulated execution of the event, which is a significant part of the Pongal festivities and continues until May each year.

The SOP clearly defines the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including district administrations, the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, and departments such as revenue, health, police, and fire and rescue services. Event organizers, bull owners, and participants are also subject to specific regulations.

Key aspects of the SOP include mandatory video recording and documentation of each event, thorough veterinary examinations of bulls (with a specific focus on detecting alcohol abuse), and fitness checks for tamers to prevent drug or alcohol use. The regulations also stipulate that tamers must be over 18 years old and registered before participating.

Double barricading of the arena to a minimum height of eight feet is mandated to prevent bulls from escaping. The police will be responsible for maintaining order and ensuring spectator-free bull collection yards.

Authorities emphasize that jallikattu will only be permitted in government-approved locations, and strict action will be taken against anyone violating the rules. Organizers are required to obtain prior permission from the government, specifying the event location, date, and the maximum number of bulls to be permitted.

Jallikattu events are popular in the central region of Tamil Nadu, particularly in districts like Tiruchi, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Ariyalur, Perambalur, and Karur. Pudukottai typically hosts the highest number of events.

The government hopes that these stringent measures will ensure a safe and culturally sensitive celebration of jallikattu in 2026.

Read More