Balangir: Restrictions and all appeals of the district administration fell on deaf ears as tribals sacrificed thousands of animals and birds at Khairaguda and Kumuria villages under Deogaan block in Balangir district while observing Sulia Jatra on Tuesday.
The rituals began late last night after ‘Nisi Puja’. Then they arrived at Sulia Pitha – Bada Khala and Sana Khala, where thousands of cock, pigeon, fowl, goat, sheep and buffalo calf were sacrificed.
Meanwhile, hundreds of devotees different parts of the state and thronged the Sulia Pitha to witness the annual festival, which the tribal believe is an act of gratitude to the deity, Sulia.
“We observe Sulia Jatra according to our Kandha tradition. People sacrifice animals and birds here after fulfillment of their wishes,” said an Adivasi Sangha Adviser.
Led by SP and Additional SP, one DSP and five platoons of police forces have been deployed to maintain law and order. Four magistrates were also present at the spot.
The practice of animal sacrifice continues unabated in these villages of the district despite a ban order by Orissa High Court and the district administration’s repeated attempt to stop it.
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