Pol leaders spar over betting as political interests and cultural sentiments clash

There is no such thing like availing permissions for conducting Kodi Pandelu, it is banned by Supreme Court and serious action will be taken against those involved in such activities Adnan Nayeem Asmi West Godavari SP 

KIRANMAI TUTIKA I AMARAVATI

It is banned but beloved. The tradition of Kodi Pandelu (cockfighting) has once again become a contentious issue in Veeravasaram Mandal, Bhimavaram constituency ahead of Sankranti festival. Heated debates are leading to rifts among coalition leaders. The practice, banned by the Supreme Court, remains a polarizing topic as political interests and cultural sentiments clash. It has become a case of tradition or law? 

For decades, Bhimavaram has been known for hosting cockfights during Sankranti. This year, however, reports suggest that a few leaders from YSRCP recently aligned with the ruling coalition government are leveraging the tradition to consolidate political influence.

Allegedly, these leaders are using the names of prominent figures, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Bhimavaram MLA Pulaparthi Ramanjaneyulu, BJP ally MP Srinivas Varma, and Thota Seetha Mahalakshmi, to promote their cockfighting events and attract participants.

Social media is abuzz with allegations that certain leaders are monopolizing the cockfighting events by ensuring no permissions are granted for other venues and these newly joined leaders are intimidating residents and centralizing the activities at a single location in Veeravasaram Mandal, which has a population of over 64,000. They are reportedly inviting participants from neighboring districts and even other states, raising concerns about overcrowding, public safety, and potential violence.  

Critics argue that these gatherings could result in large-scale brawls, stampedes, or other life-threatening incidents. “If something goes wrong, who will take responsibility?” questioned a local resident in a widely shared social media post.  

Amid the uproar, West Godavari SP Adnan Nayeem Asmi has clarified that no large-scale cockfighting events will be permitted. The police department has denied permissions for such activities and assured that only traditional Sankranti festivities, such as Thirunaallu will be taking place and small competitions like Rangoli, Kabaddi, volleyball, e.t.c, will take place under tight security and strict vigilance.

Speaking to Metro India, West Godavari SP Adnan Nayeem Asmi said, “There is no such thing like availing permissions for conducting Kodi Pandelu, it is banned by Supreme Court and serious action will be taken against those involved in such activities.

We have deployed additional police forces to monitor the situation and ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s ban on cockfighting. Even in Sankranthi festivities, we are ensuring that no discrepancies take place.”

The controversy has also exposed growing cracks within the ruling coalition. YSRCP leaders who recently joined the coalition parties are being accused of exploiting the festival for political and financial gains, sidelining others who have long been associated with the tradition.

Critics allege that these leaders are prioritizing personal interests over community welfare and turning the festival into a platform for political dominance.

Local residents have expressed their frustration, demanding that Sankranti be celebrated in its true spirit peacefully and without exploitation. The authorities are now tasked with balancing the enforcement of the law and the preservation of cultural traditions.

While police patrols and security measures are in place to prevent unlawful activities, locals hope for a celebration that reflects the festival’s joy and unity rather than controversy and chaos.

As the debate rages on, the larger question remains: Can Sankranti’s cherished traditions evolve to align with modern legal and ethical standards, or will they continue to ignite political and social disputes? Only time will tell.