Two recent incidents involving self-proclaimed cow vigilantes have heightened communal tensions in Aligarh, raising concerns over rising mob violence and targeting of Muslim meat traders under the guise of cow protection.
In the latest episode, a group of alleged Gau Rakshaks and members of Hindu organisations intercepted a pickup truck in the Kudh Fatehgarh area on suspicion of beef transportation. Eyewitnesses reported that the group surrounded the vehicle, verbally abused the driver and passengers, and attempted to incite violence.
Police arrived swiftly and diffused the situation before it turned violent. A search of the vehicle revealed it was carrying waste from chicken and fish—collected from local shops for disposal—disproving the mob’s allegations. The police later disposed of the remains to prevent further unrest. A video of the incident, now circulating on social media, shows officers reprimanding the occupants of the vehicle for the odor and instructing them to cover the waste properly.
“A major tragedy was averted,” a senior police official said. “Had there been any delay, it could have escalated into serious violence.”
The incident has sparked fear among local Muslims. “Even those working honestly are being targeted,” said Abdul Karim, a resident. “Anyone can be falsely accused and attacked.”
Just days earlier, on May 25, another violent incident was reported in Alhaddapur, under the jurisdiction of Harduaganj police station. Four Muslim men—Qadeem, Ali, Arbaaz, and one other—were assaulted by cow vigilantes who accused them of transporting beef. Their vehicle was torched, and all four sustained serious injuries.
According to police, the victims were licensed meat traders and were carrying buffalo meat with valid documentation. Investigations revealed the attack was premeditated, with the assailants allegedly demanding ₹50,000 in extortion before launching the assault.
Law enforcement later confirmed the meat was not from a banned animal. A case has been registered under serious charges, including attempt to murder, robbery, and extortion. Thirteen individuals have been named in the FIR, along with 20–25 unidentified suspects. Several arrests have been made, though some accused remain at large.
These back-to-back incidents have sent shockwaves through Aligarh’s minority community. Activists and locals are demanding decisive action against those misusing cow protection as a cover for communal violence.
“We want justice and accountability,” said Zubair Ahmed, a social activist. “Innocent people are being targeted again and again.”
Police have assured citizens of increased vigilance and security measures to maintain communal harmony. “We are closely monitoring the situation and won’t allow any disruption of peace,” said the Aligarh Senior Superintendent of Police.
Despite official assurances, fear continues to grip parts of the city, with many saying that simply being a Muslim and transporting meat—regardless of its type—is enough to put lives at risk.
