Bolangir: Preparations for the annual Sulia yatra at Khairagura beginning here on Tuesday are in the final stages.
The high court had directed the district administration to ensure no animal is sacrificed during the festival.
To appease the God, the tribal people perform the altar ritual at three places under Khairagura and Kumuria villages namely—Bada Khala, Sana Khala and Nua Khala.
Section 144 has been enforced at these places since January 8 to prevent mass animal sacrifice. The prohibitory orders will be in force till January 12.
Besides keeping a strict vigil on the developments, the district administration along with the active participation of Sulia Sanskar Manch activists has launched an awareness campaign against the bloody ritual.
The local administration was however optimistic about the initiative and expected a deep impact on people`s mind.
A large number of devotees mostly tribals participate in the annual festivity and offer prayers at the Sulia shrine.
Though the administration is putting up all efforts to prevent animal sacrifice, the pro-ritual activists are determined to go ahead with the age old rituals.
Meanwhile, more than 40 persons including the priest of the tribals have been served notices under Sec 106 of IPC.