Kakinada: The implementation of ban on cockfights has become a formidable challenge to the police since organisers, who have a lot of political influence, have made it clear that they would continue their cockfight sport with a traditional spirit, though the AP High Court has delivered its judgment against cockfights.
“The court delivered its verdict. Law has its own course. The people organise cockfights as usual, as per tradition,’’ said a public representative in Peddapuram constituency.
“We can’t care court stays or court directives in cockfight issue. The governments as well as courts allow playing games, horse races and other gambling games. On the Internet and mobile phones, there is an advertisement to ‘play rummy’ and ‘win crores’. But, cockfight is not gambling, it is only a traditional spirit of sport which reflects the courage and image of the area and its culture,’’ said Mr. Subba Rao of Peddada village, an organiser and prize cock grower.
The organisers said people engaged in agriculture works in coastal and northern Andhra from Guntur to Srikakulam, in particular both East and West Godavari districts, enjoy Sankranti festival by watching cockfights and other sports.
“Cockfight is a sport - a tradition and culture. The courts cannot interfere and eradicate it. If there is any betting and tying of knives to cock’s feet during the fight, the government should ensure that such cruelty does not happen,” said petitioner Mr. K. Raghurama Krishnam Raju. He said that he would move the Supreme Court, challenging the AP High Court’s verdict.
However, the animal lovers welcomed the court’s verdict and said the government should honour and respect the court verdict and take steps to stall cockfight sport in the state.
“There is a no meaning in ‘cockfight as a sport’. If they take it is a tradition, why should the governments ban child marriages, dying with the dead husband (Sati Sahagamanam) and others,’’ Animal Rescue Organisation secretary Gopal R. Surabathula questioned.
He said now the police should play a vital role in eradicating cockfight, in view of court’s verdict.
