Amaravati, January 15, 2026: Illegal cockfights and gambling activities defied enforcement efforts in Andhra Pradesh as Sankranti festivities unfolded. Large-scale events emerged in coastal districts such as East Godavari, West Godavari, Krishna, Eluru, and Kakinada, where elaborate arenas hosted high-stakes betting.
Organisers, reportedly backed by public representatives, ignored repeated warnings from police and district authorities.
Authorities deployed drone surveillance, set up control rooms, and destroyed some makeshift grounds ahead of the festival, yet violations persisted statewide, including in rural villages near Vijayawada.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has directed a strict prohibition on cockfighting under animal cruelty and gaming laws, with joint inspection teams tasked to raid sites and seize items.
