An elderly Muslim couple in Gopalganj district was allegedly harassed and threatened by a local Hindu organisation leader after purchasing two cows, triggering widespread outrage once video footage of the incident surfaced online.
The confrontation took place in Panchdevri block when Pradeep Maurya, identified as a leader of a Hindu group, and his associates stopped the couple, accusing them of being “cow smugglers.” Reports suggest no verification of documents or claims was made before the allegations.
In the video, the elderly man can be heard clarifying, “I always rear two to four animals for milk and business. There is nothing illegal in what I do.” His wife also pleaded, “We have bought these cows to take care of them. Why are we being treated like criminals?”
Despite their explanations, Maurya allegedly continued to intimidate the couple, warning, “I see you people every day taking cows. If I see you next time, I will tie you here,” and threatening to call the police.
Residents in the area described livestock purchases and transport as routine. “People here often move cows or buffaloes between villages for rearing. There is nothing unlawful about it,” a neighbour said on condition of anonymity.
The incident has been widely criticised on social media, with users condemning what they see as religious profiling and vigilante behaviour. Legal observers note that cow rearing is not restricted by religion, and targeting individuals based on faith amounts to harassment.Local authorities in Gopalganj have not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
