Cockfights making millions despite ban

People even from neighbouring states of Telangana, Odisha and TN participate

Like in the past, the organisers built sprawling arenas in towns and villages. Some even installed digital screens to beam the fight between roosters live.

Millions of rupees changed hands as despite ban and several measures by the police, cockfights were organised in different parts of Andhra Pradesh yesterday, the first day of Sankranti festivities.

Organisers backed by politicians organised cockfight competitions on a large scale in united East Godavari, West Godavari, Guntur and Krishna districts. Millions changed hands as revellers bet big on the cockfight, which was banned in 2018 on the orders of the Supreme Court.

Like in the past, the organisers built sprawling arenas in towns and villages. Some even installed digital screens to beam the fight between roosters live. They also deployed bouncers and installed CCTV cameras to deal with anyone creating problems.

Wads of currency notes could be seen among the hands of organisers as welltrained cocks with small knives attached to their legs fought amid cheers by the spectators. The fight often ends with the death of one of the two birds.

Hundreds of people participated in the betting at the competitions.

The organisers also made arrangements to conduct the competitions under floodlights. People from far-off places and even from neighbouring states of Telangana, Odisha and Tamil Nadu were participating in the betting.

Police cracked down on the illegal competition at few places but at many places, the organisers had the last laugh with the help of local politicians.

The organisers also made special seating arrangements for VIPs and provided food and liquor to the punters and spectators.