Bhilwara, Aug 26: Tensions escalated here Monday after two Muslim men were brutally assaulted by a mob linked to Hindutva groups. The incident occurred following the discovery of a severed cow’s tail near a local temple, which had sparked widespread anger among the local Hindu community.
The victims, identified as Mohammed Qasim and Rehan, were targeted while passing through the area where the protest was taking place. Qasim, who was returning home after purchasing household items, reported that he was attacked and his mobile phone was forcibly taken by the mob. “The police were present, but they did nothing,” he said, displaying injuries on his face and hands, reported The Hindu.
Rehan, who was on his way to buy milk, recounted a similar experience. He was stopped by a group near the temple and questioned about his identity. Upon learning he was Muslim, the mob attacked him, leaving him with multiple injuries. “They started thrashing me, kicking and punching until I fell off my bike. There were 15-20 people involved,” Rehan stated.
Videos circulating on social media reveal the extent of the violence, showing the mob pelting stones at Muslim homes and vandalizing shops. The Hindutva groups reportedly entered a Muslim locality, further inflaming the situation.
In response, Bhilwara Collector Namit Mehta confirmed that authorities were informed about the incident involving the cow’s tail and subsequent protest. He assured that discussions with local leaders had been held and that steps were being taken to maintain peace. “We assured the protesters that those responsible for the incident would be identified and apprehended. The situation is now under control, and police have been deployed in sensitive areas,” Mehta stated.
Superintendent of Police Rajan Dushyant added that an FIR has been registered regarding the severed cow’s tail, and the cow has been treated at a local veterinary hospital. “We are actively investigating the incident. Eight individuals have been taken in for questioning, and we are committed to ensuring that the peace in Bhilwara is not disturbed further,” he said.
During the protest, demands were made for bulldozer action against those responsible for the cow tail incident. The protest led to targeted attacks on a showroom and several shops, exacerbating communal tensions in the region.
The situation remains tense but under control, with authorities urging the public to refrain from spreading misinformation or engaging in violence. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected as the police continue their efforts to identify and apprehend those involved in both the initial incident and subsequent violence.
