What Happened to Farmers Transporting Bulls in MP?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A shocking incident of vigilantism in Madhya Pradesh highlights the rising issue of cow protection groups taking the law into their own hands. Two farmers face assault while transporting bulls for farming, raising alarming questions about legal authority and the safety of agricultural practices.
Key Takeaways
- Vigilantism poses a serious threat to farmers' rights and safety.
- Legal documentation is crucial for farmers when transporting livestock.
- Authorities must clarify the legal grounds of cow protection actions.
- The community needs to address the rise of self-styled protectors.
- Support for agricultural practices is vital for rural economies.
Bhopal, June 24 (NationPress) A recent incident of vigilantism has emerged from the Hata police station area in the Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh, where two farmers transporting bulls for their farming activities were reportedly attacked by self-proclaimed cow protectors, known as Gau Rakshaks.
The attackers, suspecting that the farmers were engaged in cattle smuggling, confronted them late Monday night and forcibly brought them, along with the bulls, to the local police station.
A video surfaced on social media showing the farmers claiming they were assaulted.
The victims, identified as Puran and Bharat Yadav from Kalakot village in the Kumhari police station jurisdiction, were transporting four bulls that they had legally purchased from Bakswaha in Chhatarpur district.
Despite providing valid purchase documentation, it was reported that the farmers were beaten by the group of vigilantes before being delivered to the police.
In a statement to IANS, Dharmendra Upadhyay, in charge of the Hata police station and Investigating Officer, confirmed that the bulls were lawfully acquired and being transported for agricultural purposes.
“A group of local 'Gau Rakshaks' stopped and interrogated them. After verification, all parties were allowed to leave,” the officer stated.
However, when questioned about visible injuries on Bharat Yadav’s face, which were evident in the circulated video, Dharmendra Upadhyay claimed that no complaint was filed and that no injuries were noted when the farmers reached the police station.
The incident reportedly took place around 9:30 P.M. The police have not initiated any action against the alleged assailants, as the farmers did not file a complaint.
Dharmendra Upadhyay did not clarify the legal grounds on which the 'Gau Rakshaks' had the authority to detain and interrogate the farmers, nor did he disclose the identities of the individuals involved.
This incident has raised alarms about the rising trend of vigilantism masquerading as cow protection, especially in rural Madhya Pradesh.
According to the farmers, as depicted in the video, their appeals and documentation were disregarded by the 'Gau Rakshaks', who proceeded to assault them before taking them to the police.
Bharat Yadav reportedly suffered facial injuries during this altercation, yet no medical assessment or legal repercussions against the 'Gau Rakshaks' ensued.
A similar incident occurred in June 2025 in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, where a dairy operator named Junaid Qureshi lost his life after allegedly being assaulted by vigilantes while transporting cattle. His companion sustained severe injuries.
Despite the family providing proof that the cattle were intended for dairy purposes, the attackers allegedly beat the men for several hours. The police later verified that the animals were being transported legally, but also filed a separate FIR against the victims under animal cruelty laws.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the growing trend of vigilantism in rural areas, particularly under the guise of cow protection. The safety and rights of farmers must be prioritized, and incidents like this reflect a concerning shift in societal norms. We must advocate for legal frameworks that protect individuals from such unjust actions while ensuring that agricultural practices are respected and upheld.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the farmers being assaulted?
The farmers were transporting bulls for agricultural purposes when they were wrongly suspected of cattle smuggling by self-styled cow protectors.
Were the bulls legally purchased?
Yes, the farmers had valid purchase receipts proving that the bulls were legally acquired.
What actions have been taken against the attackers?
No legal action has been taken against the alleged attackers as the farmers did not file a complaint.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident highlights the rise of vigilantism in rural areas and raises questions about the safety of farmers and the misuse of cow protection laws.
How can farmers protect their rights?
Farmers should be aware of their legal rights and ensure they have proper documentation when transporting livestock to protect themselves against false accusations.
