Bulls from 7 districts run at Koolamedu jallikattu, 32 hurt

Hundreds of people from across Salem and neighbouring districts witnessed the event, which was inaugurated by Salem Collector Rohini Bhajibhakare.

Bulls from seven districts, including Salem, Namakkal, Tiruchy, Perambalur, Ariyalur, Dindigul and Madurai districts participated. More than 30 tamers, including Gopalakrishnan (20) from Attur, Ajith (21) from Perambalur, Gokul (22) from Namakkal and Dinesh Kumar 22) from Salem, sustained injuries while attempting to overpower the bulls. Those who suffered minor injuries were administered first aid by a team of medicos stationed at the venue, while those with severe injuries were rushed to the Attur Government Hospital.

Two spectators, identified as Ravi (50) from Ulipuram and Periasamy (40) from Krishnapuram, also suffered injuries and were rushed to the Salem GH.

Officials from the district administration said that casualties were prevented as all safety measures were in place. All tamers and bulls were subjected to a medical examination conducted by an expert team. Around 80 bulls were not allowed to participate as they were found to be unfit.

Successful tamers were rewarded with gold coins, silk sarees and cash. Around 300 police personnel were deployed at the venue as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incidents during the event.