Case Study On the Landmark Ruling On Jallikattu- A Critical Analysis Contemplating the Deviation from Ecocentric Approach

Abstract

The case "Animal Welfare Board of India vs. A. Nagaraja & Ors," which was determined on May 7, 2014 and Animal Welfare Board of India & Ors vs Union Of India & Anr decided on May 18, 2023, dealt with the practice of Jallikattu. Jallikattu is a traditional event in Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra that involves bulls. This activity, in which individuals attempt to seize money fastened to the horns of a bull, has developed into a pastime that inflicts considerable suffering and injury to the animals. The Supreme Court of India determined that the utilization of bulls in activities such as Jallikattu and bullock cart racing amounted to cruelty, therefore infringing upon the animals' entitlements under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which ensures the right to life and freedom. The court's ruling underscored the need of ethical treatment of animals, in accordance with current perspectives on animal welfare. The verdict aimed to prohibit these activities in order to prevent the physical and psychological torment of bulls utilized for human amusement during cultural festivities. This ruling represented a noteworthy advancement in acknowledging and safeguarding animal rights in India, but also considering the need to prevent animal abuse and ensure public safety, while taking into account traditional customs. The case exemplified the convergence of law, culture, and animal ethics, establishing a precedent for the compassionate treatment of animals within the legal framework of the country.