New Delhi: Union Women and Child Development minister Maneka Gandhi today raised the issue of the growing menace of 'dog fighting', a bloodsport in which canines are made to attack each other, with Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who promised a probe in the matter. 

During a meeting today, Gandhi also drew Singh's attention to betting, that reportedly accompanied these dog fights, according to statement released here. Singh assured the Union minister that a detailed inquiry would be conducted and Punjab's soil not allowed for such activities. 

During the meeting, the issue of stray dogs in Punjab was also discussed, with the chief minister seeking the Centre's support in dealing with it. Gandhi suggested setting up of Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) units across the state.  

The chief minister also drew the attention of the Union minister towards the state's budget demands from the Ministry of Women and Child Development to enable the implementation of various schemes for the benefit of women and children.  

He sought early release of the funds for effective implementation of the schemes. Singh sought allocation of funds from the Nirbhaya Fund to boost the safety and security of women in the state.  

Gandhi suggested establishment of one-stop Sakhi centres in all districts of the state to support and help victims of sexual assault. These centres provide medical legal, psychological and counselling facilities under a single roof, round the clock, for women affected by any form of violence. PTI