Tirupati: Top police officers of Tirupati and Chittoor districts announced that strict action will be taken against those who organise cockfights and race bulls, like Jallikattu in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, to prevent these blood-shedding sports.
Bull races and cockfights are, however, a tradition in these regions.
Chittoor superintendent of police Y. Rishanth Reddy organised a wireless conference with police officials across the district in this regard. He asked them to coordinate their operations animal welfare, revenue and other departments concerned to effectively enforce the ban.
The SP said, “Special mandal-level teams comprising tahsildar, sub-inspector and animal welfare board staff have been formed for the purpose. These teams will keep vigil, create awareness among people and prevent any attempts to organise these events locally. Police pickets are being placed in areas prone to activities like Jallikattu and cockfighting. History-sheeters known to organise these events are being bound over from their areas.”
He said people can provide information on any such illegal activity on Chittoor district police WhatsApp number 94409 00005. Their identities will be kept confidential.
Tirupati SP P. Parameshwar Reddy informed people that no permissions have been granted for bull races or cockfights. We will take strict action
against anyone involved in such events,” he clarified.
The SP asked people to call the emergency helpline number 100 or on WhatsApp number 80999 99977 if they come across any such events being organised secretly. “Special police teams will promptly reach the venue and take action against violators as per law,” he stated.
The two SPs have also issued a general advisory requesting people to securely lock their homes and inform local police station before leaving on vacation to their native places. People can also send a “watch request” for their homes on the LHMS app. They advised people to use CCTV cameras and surveillance systems to enhance security at their homes.
