more-in Pic by S. James MADURAI: Nearly 1,000 bulls and 1500 tamers have registered for the famed jallikattu to be held at Alanganallur in Madurai district on Friday. Alanganallur was the focal point of the pro-jallikattu protest that intensified during Pongal and eventually led to the passing of a special legislation by the State government to overcome the ban on the sport. Elaborate security arrangements, involving around 2000 police personnel, had been made by the police and the district administration for the smooth conduct of the event in adherence to all safety regulations stipulated in the new legislation, an official said. Official sources said that around 20 medical teams, 10 veterinary teams, 10 ambulances and two veterinary ambulances would be deployed for the event. The district administration has also set up six LED screens for the public to view the event. Though none of the MLAs or ministers from the ruling AIADMK is expected to attend the event due to the ongoing political turmoil in the State, DMK’s working president M.K. Stalin will witness the Alanganallur jallikattu along with leaders of a few other political parties. A large number of people from across the State, including those who actively participated in the pro-jallikattu protest in Alanganallur and other places, and some celebrities are expected to attend the event. D. Raghupathy, member of the organising committee, said that Alanganallur would live up to expectations since bull owners were expected to release the best bulls as a matter of prestige. Owing to huge sponsorships received this year, the organising committee had announced expensive prizes, including a car, a tractor and motorbikes for the first time this year. ENDS

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