TVK MLA expresses regret over remarks on Jallikattu arena

Madurai, Aug 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) TVK MLA Karuppaiah, representing the Sholavandan constituency in Tamil Nadu's Madurai district, has clarified that he never intended to denigrate jallikattu and expressed regret if his recent remarks hurt the sentiments of young people and supporters of the traditional sport.

In a statement, Karuppaiah described jallikattu as a historically significant and valiant sport deeply rooted in Tamil culture. He said there could be no dispute over its cultural importance, particularly as it was closely associated with the region where he was born and raised.

The MLA issued the clarification following criticism of his speech in the Tamil Nadu Assembly concerning the jallikattu arena near Alanganallur.

Karuppaiah said his comments had been misunderstood and that he had only questioned the priorities behind spending public money on the facility. He pointed out that the National Cooperative Sugar Mill in the Alanganallur area had been shut down due to a shortage of funds. According to him, approximately Rs 50 crore would be required to revive the mill and restore employment and economic activity in the region.

Karuppaiah said he had argued that the Rs 63 crore reportedly spent on constructing the jallikattu arena, which he claimed had provided little tangible benefit to local people, could instead have been used to reopen the sugar mill.

He also questioned whether conducting jallikattu in a stadium modelled on arenas associated with European countries such as Spain was compatible with Tamil cultural traditions. Jallikattu, he said, should retain its indigenous character and remain connected to the villages and communities that have preserved the sport for generations.

The MLA further said that during the previous DMK government, jallikattu events at Alanganallur and Palamedu were followed by another event at the newly constructed arena during the Pongal season. He claimed this encouraged some school and college students to remain absent from classes to attend successive events.

Karuppaiah maintained that he had raised the matter in the Assembly only to guide students and protect their educational interests. He said his intention was to encourage young people to complete their studies, obtain degrees and secure a better future.

“I have never insulted jallikattu, the valiant sport of the Tamil people,” the MLA said, adding that he regretted any words that might have unintentionally offended the younger generation.

Source: IANS