Javadekar backs bullock cart race, Nagpanchami

He was reiterating his earlier opinion that bullock cart races could be allowed if measures to prevent injury to the animals are in place. It had drawn criticism from animal activists.

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He said a few animal activists had approached him seeking a ban on bullock cart races.

“I told them that farmers know how to take care of bullocks, and the activists should not make an issue of bullock cart race,” Javadekar said.

He added that the Union government would ensure that no harm is done to the animals participating in the race by making strict rules while amending laws to allow such traditional events to take place.

Javadekar said there are objections to Nagpanchami, an age-old festival, at Shirala where snakes are worshipped.