Roosters fighting at Karaikeni in Madurai on Sunday.

Roosters fighting at Karaikeni in Madurai on Sunday.
| Photo Credit: G. MOORTHY

  The traditional ‘vethukaval seval sandai’(knife-less rooster fight), which was conducted at Karaikeni near Peraiyur taluk here on Sunday after a long time following directions by Madurai Bench of Madras High Court, drew enthusiastic youth and spectators from various parts of the State. 

The event had witnessed a break for a few years due to court’s intervention in denying permission under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, which prohibits inciting any animal or bird to fight for entertainment. 

However, the HC’s order dated February, 11, 2026, granted permission to conduct the game on conditions that no knives would be tied to the roosters’ legs and no gambling or alcohol consumption would take place at the venue and mandated the presence of a team of veterinary doctors and revenue officials to inspect the birds. 


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