Tension prevailed at the Codissia Grounds here today as angry protesters blocked the road on which Rekla race was to be held in the presence of Minister of Municipal Administration and Rural Development S.P. Velumani here on Sunday.

The protesters, who also blocked the Minister’s car, demanded a permanent solution for holding Jallikattu. They raised slogans against the State Government for hurriedly making arrangements for the event at the Codissia Grounds while thousands were still protesting at the VOC Grounds.

Initially, the district administration had announced that around 200 bullock carts (with two bulls each) would be participating in the event. It had also announced two categories – 200 metre and 300 metre races.

However, only four carts arrived at the venue. The Minister flagged off the race in the presence of District Collector T.N. Hariharan. Only a few AIADMK cadres and few members of the public were present.

Around 200 protesters, who had gathered at the venue, said they would allow the race only after a permanent solution was found for Jallikattu issue.

“The Ordinance is a temporary solution. The State could have considered this before itself. We want a permanent solution. Only then we will stop our protest,” said a protester.

They refused to listen to the Minister, who tried to pacify them.

The protesters in VOC Grounds and other areas including Alanganallur, Chennai, Thamukkam, Salem and Dindigul did not relent even after the State Government announced that it had passed an ordinance.