MIE, May 07 (News On Japan) –
The Ageuma Shinji (Horse leaping pageant) nonetheless faces condemnation from animal rights activists, regardless of the removing of earthen partitions to enhance security.
The annual pageant takes place each May on the Tado Taisha Shrine in Mie Prefecture, courting again about 700 years, the place horses climb steep slopes and leap over obstacles.
Last yr, resulting from accidents suffered by a horse, which led to its euthanasia and allegations of animal abuse, modifications had been made for this yr’s occasion, together with the removing of obstacles.
On the day of the occasion, all taking part horses efficiently accomplished the ascent with out accidents, in entrance of a big crowd of onlookers.
Local spectators expressed blended emotions in regards to the modifications. Some lamented the lack of historic significance related to the obstacles, whereas others welcomed the modifications, emphasizing the significance of the occasion itself.
However, the occasion was not with out controversy. Animal welfare teams staged protests on the venue, resulting in heated exchanges between supporters and opponents of the ritual, with police intervention required to take care of order.
Despite differing opinions, the native authorities overseeing the occasion acknowledged that no important violations of animal welfare legal guidelines had been noticed.
The organizers pledged to proceed reviewing the occasion with enter from specialists as they navigate the continuing debate surrounding the pageant.
Source: ANN