Rooster fights held in A.P. despite police warning

Rooster fights held in A.P. despite police warning

Sub: History

Sec: Art and Culture

Context: –

• Kodi Pandem, the banned sport, which has huge patronage in the rural areas, is conducted in a big way during the harvest festival every year. Since its ban by the High Court of Andhra Pradesh in 2016, the police have been trying to enforce it and prevent cruelty towards the birds.
• It is also banned under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960 and Andhra Pradesh Gaming Act, 1974.

Recent Developments in Andhra Pradesh:

• Police Raids: As Sankranti approaches, police in Andhra Pradesh have increased raids on rooster fight organizers, knife manufacturers, and habitual offenders associated with the banned sport. Special teams have been formed to monitor and prevent these activities.
• Use of Technology: The Andhra Pradesh police are employing drones and artificial intelligence to monitor and prevent rooster fights and related illegal activities during the festival season.
• Financial Stakes: Despite the ban, significant amounts of money are spent during these events.

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960: Overview

The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 is a central law enacted to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and ensure their welfare.

• Definition of Cruelty (Section 11):
  • Includes beating, kicking, torturing, or overloading animals.
  • Prohibits organizing or participating in animal fights.
• Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) (Section 4):
  • Established to promote animal welfare, advise the government, and ensure enforcement of the Act.
• Exemptions (Section 28):
  • Permits humane killing of animals for food or religious purposes.

Animal Fights in India: State-Wise Overview