CHENNAI: In a state which is still debating the pros and cons of the Supreme Court ban on Jallikattu (bull taming), yet another popular rural game -- the cockfighting – on Wednesday received a jolt with the Madras high court suggesting the Tamil Nadu government ban the sport."This court is custodian of not only the rights of citizens, but rights of voiceless non-humans as well," observed Justice N Kriubakaran.Refusing to grant permission for a cockfight event at a temple in Virattipathu in Madurai district, Justice Kirubakaran said: "Torture, injury, hurt, discomfort, trauma, agony, pain, distress, disturbance, sorrow, suffering, harm, shock, bleeding, brutal attack, etc., are neither synonymous nor can go together with pleasure, joy, happiness, excite, net, fun, celebration, entertainment, enjoyment, recreation and championship."Cockfight is generally conducted during festivals seasons, Justice Kirubakaran said, adding that not just birds, such fights often led to fights among their owners also. "There is s possibility of group clashes resulting in injuries to men and even loss of lives which is unwanted and avoidable.”Cockfights are also said to be conducted for betting and gambling, said Justice Kirubakaran, refusing to permit the event at Arulmigu Muniyandi temple in Viraattipathu.“Besides our forefathers, the Constitution also mandates treating animals with compassion,” he said, adding, "It is the bounden duty of every citizen to treat animals with compassion and sympathy except for necessity. Birds and animals are friends of humans."Citing constitutional mandate and the apex court ruling on Jallikattu, the judge said: "This court suggests the government to prohibit cockfight. Accordingly, the permission sought by the petitioner cannot be granted."