Sankranti Cockfights Roar in Godavari Districts, Political Support Sparks Controversy

• Sankranti celebrations in Godavari districts see widespread cockfights, especially in Pithapuram, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan's constituency.
• Telugu Desam Party state spokesperson SVS Varma inaugurated cockfights in Pithapuram, claiming it's a cultural tradition without knives, not gambling.
• Despite official claims, reports suggest cockfights with knives and extensive betting (crores of rupees) are secretly occurring.
• Cockfight arenas, along with other gambling games like Gundaata and Kotha Mukka, are active across various locations including Kakinada Rural, Tuni, and Amalapuram.
• The involvement of ruling party leaders in inaugurating these events raises questions about police enforcement and restrictions.

Why It Matters: Sankranti cockfights thrive in Godavari districts with political backing, despite police restrictions and gambling concerns.