India: Large-scale cockfights held despite legal ban

Cockfights were held on a widespread scale across several districts of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, the opening day of the three-day Sankranti festival, despite official prohibitions and repeated warnings from police. 

As reported by Madhyamam Online, betting activity continued openly at numerous specially built arenas in coastal regions including East and West Godavari, Dr B.R. Ambedkar Konaseema, Eluru, Polavaram and Krishna.

The events drew substantial crowds, with local politicians, business figures and celebrities among those present. Public representatives were seen supporting organisers directly, even as authorities cautioned that such activities violate court orders. 

Roosters equipped with small knives were pitted against each other, prompting loud cheering from spectators and frequently resulting in the death of one bird. Organisers installed floodlights, generators and designated galleries for women and VVIP guests to facilitate fights running late into the night.

Some organisers defended the gatherings as cultural traditions associated with Sankranti and claimed that betting was not involved. They also argued that only cockfights involving knives are explicitly banned under court rulings. Notable attendees reportedly included Deputy Speaker K. Raghurama Krishna Raju, MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao and former Hyderabad Mayor T. Krishna Reddy.

In response to High Court directions, police increased surveillance, deployed drones and issued public notices warning that gambling and animal fighting would not be tolerated. A district-level control room was established in Kakinada to handle complaints. Officers in West Godavari, Eluru and Kakinada released joint statements cautioning that no unlawful activities would be permitted under the guise of festival celebrations.

Despite this, organisers continued to construct large-scale venues resembling cinema halls or sports fields. Animal rights groups urged citizens to report violations and reminded the public that organising or abetting animal fights remains a cognisable offence under national law.