Tamil Nadu: Despite the rise in COVID-19 cases in the state, the Tamil Nadu government on Monday allowed to conduct jallikattu, or bull taming, during the Pongal festival.

To ensure physical distancing rules, only 50% of the total number of seats authorised will be allowed as audience, with a ceiling of 150 people. According to a government order with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) issued by Chief Secretary V. Irai Anbu, audience members must additionally present certifications for two COVID-19 vaccine doses and a COVID-19 negative certificate.

Certificates for two COVID-19 vaccine doses and COVID-19 negative certificates should be kept by all department executives and organisers. "Those living in distant towns / cities are recommended to follow the jallikattu events on television and webstreaming," the order stated.

The rules of the Tamil Nadu Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Conduct of Jallikattu) Rules, 2017 and the restrictions established by the State government to contain the spread of COVID-19 must also be followed after receiving prior approval from the State government.

Only the master and trainer of each bull will be permitted to compete, and they must have a vaccination certificate for two COVID-19 dosages as well as a COVID-19 negative certificate to gain entry. They can only enter the arena according to the rules if they have identity cards provided by the district government.

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