Animal rights groups today welcomed the decision of the Hyderabad High Court upholding the ban on cockfighting and demanded its strong implementation.

"We are delighted that the Hyderabad High Court has upheld the ban on cockfighting. Cockfighting is not only cruel to animals but also encourages gambling and child labour.

"A practice that glorifies so many illegal activities should have no place in a civilised society," N G Jayasimha, Member, Animal Welfare Board of India, and Managing Director of Humane Society International/India said.

People For Animals urged the law enforcement agencies to ensure that the order is obeyed.

"We expect the state to strictly follow the orders and ensure that people responsible for organising cockfighting are booked under the law.

"We encourage the public who witness any cockfight during Sankranti or any other season to report the incident at their nearest police station or by calling the HSI/India tip line number at +917674922044," said Gauri Maulekhi, Trustee, People for Animals.

The Hyderabad High Court had yesterday upheld the ban on cockfighting and directed the state government of Andhra Pradesh to ensure no cockfighting takes place during Sankranti festival.

The Court also gave directions to implement the ban and prevent cockfights, including establishment of Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at District level, formation of inspection teams, and initiation of disciplinary actions against erring officials for any lapse in carrying out these directions.

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