Sun Jan 12 16:52:04 UTC 2025: ## Andhra Pradesh Police Crack Down on Illegal Rooster Fights Despite Sankranti Festivities
**Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh – January 13, 2025** – Despite a police crackdown, organizers are preparing for illegal rooster fights in Andhra Pradesh during the upcoming Sankranti festival. While authorities in Krishna and West Godavari districts have conducted raids, destroyed fighting arenas, and launched awareness campaigns, organizers are erecting tents and making arrangements for gambling near Ramvarappadu in Vijayawada.
Local residents claim the fights are a traditional part of Sankranti celebrations, insisting that no knives are attached to the birds. However, police have warned of strict action against violators of High Court orders prohibiting the blood sport. Superintendent of Police R. Gangadhar Rao (Krishna district) and K. Pratap Shiva Kishore (Eluru district) reported that arenas have been damaged and increased vigilance is in place to prevent the fights. Despite this, punters are training roosters and conducting practice fights, even inviting celebrities and local leaders to witness the events. The three-day Sankranti festival begins today.
First Piper 