Hundreds of animals were sacrificed in full public view today at Bhawanipatna in Kalahandi district on the occasion of famous 'Chhatar Jatra' of the presiding goddess Manikeswari, officials said.
The animals, including goats and hen, were sacrificed on the road in presence of police and district administration officials as the procession of 'Chhatar (umbrella) Jatra' passed from the Kalahandi royal palace till Jenakhal, a distance of 3 kilometre, in the town.
This was held despite a massive awareness campaign by the police and district administration against sacrifice of the animals.
"Though animals were sacrificed this time too, the number has come down due to massive awareness campaign. It can be stopped totally, but gradually," Kalahandi Superintendent of Police Brijesh Kumar Rai said.
Like every year, lakhs of devotees from various places throng Bhawanipatna town to get glimpse of the 'Chhatar Jatra' of the deity.
Tight security arrangements were made from Jenakhal to Manikeshwari temple.
