AP govt treads with caution on cockfights

Eluru/Rajamahendravaram: Come Sankranthi, it is testing time for the state government and the police in reining in those who indulge in the sport of cockfights with gay abandon.

As people's sentiments are involved in this sport, the state government is trying to do a tight rope walk - allowing the cockfights but ensuring that no harm is done to the cocks. Deputy Chief Minister N Chinarajappa, speaking to reporters at Eluru and Rajamahendravaram on Friday said his government valued both - tradition and prevention of violation of law.

"The existing guidelines should be followed in allowing the cockfights," he said, adding that the people should enjoy the festival in such a way that it would not lead to any law and order problem or breaking of any laws.

Meanwhile, West Godavari District Collector K Bhaskar directed panchayat secretaries to alert police stations if any instance of organising cockfights came to their notice in their respective areas.

The Collector, at a review meeting with officials of the Panchayat Raj, said the High Court had given clear directives on cockfights and therefore panchayat secretaries should prevent the sport in accordance with the guidelines.