Kendrapara, Dec. 16: The traditional game of cockfighting has turned into a major gambling activity in the villages of Mahakalpada block in Kendrapara.
Law-enforcing agencies have been oblivious to this, while the tribal villagers are making beelines to watch the fights and bet.
Animal rights activists have sought for a blanket ban on the game under provisions of the prevention of cruelty to animals law and the Orissa Prevention Of Gambling Act.
Local people are getting into gambling on cockfights at Adivasipadia and Arunnagar village of Baulokani gram panchayat in Mahakalpada. The fights have begun from November 15, the day of Prathamstami and it will continue till January 15, the Makar Sankranti.
The tradition of cockfights is very popular in these areas. While the fight goes on in an arena, the spectators bet on roosters.
The fight evokes a lot of enthusiasm. However, the primary attention for most people is remains on the betting that goes on during each bout, said Bijoy Shukla, a former sarpanch.
“Transportation of chickens is a violation of prevention of cruelty to animals law. Besides, the death of roosters, during the fight, amounts to slaughtering in public glare, which is illegal. The fights lead to betting, which is a punishable offence under the Orissa Prevention Of Gambling Act. Many children are found witnessing the bloody game. Such cruel practice imparts negativity in the impressionable minds of children and teenagers,” said Bijoy Kabi, member of society for prevention of cruelty to animals, Kendrapara.“I have drawn the attention of both the civil and police officials and appealed to them to stop such cruel and illegal practice,” Kobi said.
“We enjoy the game. Cockfights are entertaining. The arena becomes a place for social interaction as people from all walks of life gather there. Though betting does takes place during the game, the amounts at stake are negligible. People are unaware of complex legal provisions and rules. They would be deprived of an amusing annual ritual if the authorities ban it on legal grounds,” said Harpada mandal, a resident of Baulokani village.
Inspector of Mahakalpada police station Padarbinda Tripathy said: “It had not been brought to the notice of the police earlier. As a complaint has been lodged, the police will take steps accordingly.”