The remarks made by TVK MLA Karuppaiah of Sholavandan constituency on Jallikattu in the Tamil Nadu Assembly last Thursday have been removed from the Assembly records, Speaker J. C. D. Prabhakar announced.
Karuppaiah’s remarks had triggered controversy, with leaders of several parties, including the AIADMK and AMMK, condemning his comments. The AIADMK has also announced a protest on September 3 against the MLA’s remarks.
Earlier, Karuppaiah had expressed regret over his comments, stating that he did not intend to demean Jallikattu, the traditional sport of Tamils.
He said conducting Jallikattu in specially constructed arenas based on the culture of Spain and other European countries was contrary to Tamil culture. He also said he had raised the issue in the Assembly with students in mind, as some students were showing greater interest in participating in Jallikattu events instead of attending school and college regularly.
Karuppaiah said his intention was to encourage students to focus on their education and build a better future. He expressed regret if his remarks had hurt the sentiments of the younger generation.
