Cockfight During Sankranti: A Controversial Tradition in Andhra Pradesh
As the Sankranti festival approaches, towns across the Godavari region and coastal Andhra Pradesh are gearing up for the infamous practice of cockfight, a blood sport that has long been a part of the state’s celebration. The festival, which begins on January 13, sees millions of rupees wagered on these brutal contests, with towns like NTR, Krishna, Eluru, West Godavari, East Godavari, Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, and Dr BR Ambedkar Konamseema becoming hotspots for the practice.
What is Cockfight?
Cockfighting involves pitting two roosters against each other in a fierce battle, often resulting in death or severe injury. The chickens are equipped with sharp, curved blades attached to their legs, intensifying the cruelty of the fight. The competition typically ends with one or both birds succumbing to their injuries. Despite being a criminal offense, cockfighting remains a popular, albeit illegal, tradition in several states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, especially during festivals like Sankranti.
A Thrilling (and Dangerous) Showdown
Every year, cockfighting during Sankranti features a fierce battle between two distinct breeds of roosters: the highly agile Peruvian rooster and the native Aseel rooster, known for its strength and endurance. Breeders in East and West Godavari, Krishna, and Guntur regions prepare these chickens with special care, training them for the bloody contests. These battles, accompanied by massive betting pools, have turned into significant events, with reports indicating that crores of rupees are bet on these fights.
Despite numerous warnings from authorities, illegal cockfighting rings are expected to flourish in rural and interior areas, with many even emerging in urban centers during the Sankranti festivities. These cockfighting events are often organized by influential figures, including political leaders, whose family members are suspected of backing the practice.
“I’ve been seeing cockfights in Bhimavaram for years. They set up tents and organize everything with crores in betting. This year, too, the fights will begin around Bhogi, and it gets more intense as Sankranti approaches,” said Siva, a local of Bhimavaram.
The High Stakes of Cockfight
For breeders, the value of well-trained roosters is immense. According to sources from the Godavari district, a single Peruvian rooster can fetch anywhere from ₹2 to ₹3 lakh, thanks to its superior fighting skills. The high demand for such birds means that betting during the three-day festival could reach approximately ₹1,000 crore, with participants including politicians, NRIs, software professionals, and even young people drawn to the thrill of the game.
Authorities on High Alert
In response to the illegal cockfighting menace, local authorities have issued stern warnings to anyone involved in organizing or participating in the brutal sport. Dr. G Lakshmisha, the collector of the NTR district, emphasized that severe action would be taken against violators, and animal husbandry departments have been actively spreading awareness about the prohibition of cockfighting.
Police Force Uses Drones to Combat Cockfight
To combat the rising incidence of cockfighting, Andhra Pradesh police are deploying drones and artificial intelligence for surveillance. Police officials, including Ch. Dwaraka Tirumala Rao, have conducted video conferences with district superintendents of police (SPs) and inspector general (IG) officials, urging increased vigilance.
A total of 130 high-tech drones are now stationed in high-risk areas, conducting periodic surveillance to crack down on illegal cockfighting operations.
The Legal Consequences of Cockfighting
Cockfighting is prohibited under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Section 11(1)(m)(ii) of the Act makes organizing animal fights an offense, while Section 11(1)(n) criminalizes the facilitation, maintaining, or allowing spaces for such events. Those found guilty of participating in or organizing cockfights can face severe legal penalties, as these offenses are classified as cognizable crimes.
Tradition vs. Law: The Ongoing Debate
Supporters of cockfighting argue that it is a time-honored tradition associated with the Sankranti festival. However, critics highlight the cruelty involved and the widespread suffering inflicted on the animals. Despite the legal prohibitions and efforts by the authorities, cockfighting continues to thrive, often fueled by the backing of influential individuals and widespread public interest.
As the Sankranti celebrations begin, the eyes of the authorities will be on these illegal cockfighting events. Will the police succeed in enforcing the law, or will the brutal tradition continue to dominate the festivities?
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