Andhra Pradesh: Cockfighting and Illegal Betting Continue During Sankranti Despite High Court Ban
Despite a High Court ban, cockfighting and illegal betting worth hundreds of crores continued across Andhra Pradesh during Sankranti, raising serious enforcement concerns.
aaravi_editor
Despite strict directions from the Andhra Pradesh High Court and police restrictions, large-scale cockfighting and illegal betting continued across several parts of coastal Andhra Pradesh during the Sankranti festival, involving transactions worth hundreds of crores of rupees, according to sources.
Traditional cockfighting events were reportedly organised on a massive scale across the Godavari belt, where hundreds of temporary arenas—resembling mini stadiums—were erected. In these events, roosters fitted with sharp blades and knives were forced to fight until one was either killed or retreated.
Local residents claimed that nearly ₹1,000 crore changed hands over three days, beginning with Bhogi, continuing through Sankranti, and concluding with Kanuma. Thousands of spectators from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu reportedly gathered at these venues, with luxury cars and SUVs lining village roads.
Earlier this week, the Andhra Pradesh High Court, led by Justice Venkata Jyothirmai Pratapa, directed the state government and district administrations to strictly enforce laws banning cockfighting and gambling. The court ordered the formation of animal welfare committees and joint inspection teams comprising police officials, revenue officers, and animal rights representatives.
District collectors—especially in West Godavari, East Godavari, Krishna, and Guntur districts—were instructed to identify cockfighting venues and prevent events by invoking Section 144 of the CrPC, if necessary. The court also warned officials of personal accountability for lapses in enforcement.
In a few areas, police action was taken. In Krishna Rao Palem village of Eluru district, makeshift cockfighting tents were dismantled. Eluru Superintendent of Police Pratap Shiva Kishore warned that strict legal action would be initiated against organisers, financiers, and participants involved in cockfighting and gambling.
However, enforcement remained limited, and the events continued in many locations. Sources claimed that several political leaders and MLAs were seen at cockfighting venues, allegedly placing bets on competing roosters.
