Chennai, January 16: Jallikattu, the cultural festival of Tamil Nadu which came at odds with animal protection rights two years ago, is currently underway in the state. On day 1 of the fest on Tuesday, at least 49 bull-tamers were injured in several accidents reported across the state. The injuries has once again drawn debate over the legality of the sport, which was once declared illegal by the Supreme Court. Jallikattu Then And Now: Objection, Agitation, Legislation - A Flashback.

The grandest Jallikattu event is held in Madurai, where over 500 bulls and an equal number of bovine-tamers, were involved. Nine among the participants were taken to hospital after they sustained minor injuries, said S Natarajan, district collector of the city. 

Jallikattu: Watch Video of the Madurai Event

In the past years, the Jallikattu events have also witnessed fatal accidents, with several of the participants being gored to death by the bulls.

In 2016, the festival was outlawed by the apex court, based on petitions filed by animal rights' groups. The court was submitted "evidence" by the petitioners of atrocities against bulls prepared for the Jallikattu event. The petitioners claimed that chilli powder, alcohol and sharp-edged weapons are used to instigate the bulls. The Jallikattu organisers, however, vehemently reject the charge.

As massive protests had broken out in Tamil Nadu after the top court's order -- which they referred to as an "assault on the Tamil culture" -- the central government headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued an executive order to evade the judicial ban.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 16, 2019 05:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).