Bhopal: Tensions rose across Madhya Pradesh’s capital after authorities found cow meat at a municipal slaughterhouse linked to the Bhopal Municipal Corporation. The discovery led to protests by right wing Hindu groups and political leaders, while officials ordered suspensions and probes.
The issue surfaced on December 17 when activists intercepted a truck near the state police headquarters in Jahangirabad. The vehicle carried over 25 tonnes of meat. Activists claimed it was cow meat. A municipal doctor initially certified the consignment as buffalo meat. A later forensic test at a veterinary laboratory in Mathura identified the meat as cow or progeny meat. Cow slaughter remains prohibited under state law.
Police traced the meat to the BMC operated slaughterhouse in Jinsi. The facility holds permission only for buffalo processing. Civic authorities sealed the slaughterhouse on January 9. Two individuals faced arrest earlier as part of the investigation.
Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya ordered the suspension of the municipal doctor and directed a detailed inquiry. Police teams continue to examine the role of civic staff and possible collusion in meat certification and transport.
Protests spread across Bhopal after the findings. Groups including Bajrang Dal, Karni Sena, and other saffron organisations staged demonstrations. Congress leaders joined the protests and accused civic officials of ignoring warnings since December. Protesters demanded demolition of the slaughterhouse and action against Aslam Qureshi, named as a key accused in the case.
Inside the municipal corporation, opposition and ruling party corporators raised objections. Some warned of resignations if authorities failed to act. Civic leaders and state ministers assured strict punishment for all involved, including officials.
Investigators are also examining claims of meat movement beyond the state through other routes, as public anger continues to grow.
