Kerala Cabinet Approves Draft Bill to Resume ‘Kaalapoottu

Quick Summary

• The Kerala State Cabinet approved a draft Bill to allow the resumption of agriculture-related cattle race events, including ‘Maramadi,’ ‘Kaalapoottu,’ ‘Kannupoottu,’ and ‘Pothottam.’
• These activities were previously banned under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
• The draft Bill includes amendments to the Central Act due to its placement in the Concurrent List. Once passed by the State Assembly, it requires approval from President Droupadi Murmu for implementation.
• Minister for Animal Husbandry J. Chinchurani stated that demands from various groups led to this legislative move and noted that Kerala is following Tamil nadu’s approach to legalize Jallikattu events.
• In September 2015, a Division Bench of Kerala High Court had upheld a Union government notification prohibiting bull performances in such competitions.

indian Opinion Analysis

The Cabinet’s decision reflects ongoing regional efforts aimed at balancing cultural traditions with animal welfare concerns within India’s legislative framework. By proceeding under Article 254(2) of the Constitution,this proposal highlights how states can amend Central laws with Presidential assent when addressing region-specific practices like cattle races. Given such events’ cultural and agricultural significance for specific communities, resuming them may accommodate local sentiments while posing questions about enforcement mechanisms safeguarding animal rights.

Kerala’s move mirrors Tamil Nadu’s successful precedent with Jallikattu legalization-indicating a broader trend toward reconciling traditional sport/event practices with modern legal stipulations across Indian states. Nevertheless, this initiative will likely prompt debates over ethical treatment in rural entertainment involving animals.

[Published – September 13, 2025]