No cockfights on Sankranti, orders Hyderabad High Court

The Hyderabad High Court on Monday directed the Andhra Pradesh government to take all possible measures to prevent cockfights during the Sankranti (Pongal) festival.

Collectors must ensure that no cockfights take place in their respective districts, said the court in response to a public interest litigation against the game involving rosters. Traditionally, these fights are organised in Andhra Pradesh on the occasion of Sankranti, especially in the coastal areas of the state.

They have become contentious due to animal rights issues and also because betting and other illegal activities are associated with them.