AMARAVATI, Jan 15: Despite a stringent ban by the Andhra Pradesh High Court and repeated warnings from the state police, the first two days of the Sankranti festival have seen a massive surge in illegal cockfighting, card games, and “casino-style” gambling across the coastal districts.

While the administration claimed to have stepped up drone surveillance, the reality on the ground told a different story. In districts like West Godavari, East Godavari, Eluru, and Krishna, massive arenas resembling mini-stadiums were erected. These venues were equipped with powerful flood lights allowing the blood sport to continue well into the night. Digital screens livestreaming the fights to spectators in VVIP galleries is also being conducted. High-profile guests were served food and liquor, many of whom reportedly traveled from Telangana and Karnataka.

Notably, several public representatives and local politicians were spotted at these events, further complicating enforcement efforts. In Pedamiram (West Godavari), prominent political figures were reportedly seen watching the bouts, lending a sense of “official patronage” to the illegal proceedings.

The festivities have evolved beyond traditional cockfights. This year, “Gundata” (a local gambling game), high-stakes card games, and makeshift casino tables have become a staple.

• Prizes & Stakes: Betting amounts reached unprecedented levels, with individual bouts seeing stakes ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹10 lakh. In some arenas, organizers even announced luxury cars and premium motorcycles as prizes for winning streaks.
• The “Casino” Shift: Sources indicate that in areas like Gollapudi and Kesarapalli, organized gambling rings operated with a sophisticated ticketing and color-coded pass system to manage the flow of “high-rollers.”

Enforcement Struggles

The police department had earlier announced a “zero-tolerance” policy. In the lead-up to the festival, teams in Eluru used JCBs to raze suspected arenas and seized over 130 specialized knives used in the fights. However, as the festival peaked, the scale of the gatherings—often involving thousands of people—made it physically difficult for local law enforcement to intervene without causing a law-and-order situation.

Animal rights activists have condemned the “barbaric” nature of the sport, where roosters have sharp blades tied to their legs, usually fighting until one is killed. Despite the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, and the AP Gaming Act, the blend of “tradition” and high-stakes commerce continues to keep these events alive.

Officials have stated that they are documenting the violations and will register cases against the organizers and landowners after the festival concludes.