Man ‘killed’ while transporting cattle in MP, police probe family claims of cow vigilante link
A shocking incident in Madhya Pradesh has reignited concerns over cow vigilantism. On June 17, Junaid Qureshi, a 35-year-old dairy worker, died after suffering serious injuries. He and his friend were attacked while transporting cattle in Raisen district on June 5. His family believes the attackers were self-styled cow vigilantes.
Cattle Journey Turns Violent
Junaid and his companion Armaan were moving cattle through Mehgaon in Raisen. A group of men stopped their vehicle and began beating them. The attackers accused them of transporting cows illegally. The brutal assault left both men unconscious.
Bystanders say the attackers had planned the ambush. The group likely acted on a tip-off about cattle movement. The number of animals in the truck was between six and ten. While some claim the cattle were in poor condition, Junaid’s family insists they were healthy and part of his dairy business.
Junaid Fights for Life, Then Dies
After the assault, both men were rushed to Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal. Junaid had serious injuries to his chest and head. Doctors placed him on life support. He remained in critical condition for nearly two weeks. On June 17, he died from his injuries. Armaan is still fighting for his life.
The family claims the attackers also stole ₹2 lakh from them. That money, they say, was meant for cattle-related purchases. Police are now examining these allegations.
Police File Cases and Make Arrests
Local police have registered multiple FIRs. One of them includes charges like murder, attempted murder, and rioting. So far, police have arrested at least four people. More than ten others are still on the run.
Another FIR was filed against Junaid and Armaan. A local workshop owner accused them of violating animal transport laws. He claimed the cattle were treated inhumanely. The police took custody of the animals and moved them to a gaushala in Vidisha.
Family Says He Was Not a Smuggler
Junaid’s relatives deny all accusations of cow smuggling or cruelty. They say he was a dairy professional with proper documents. “Our brother ran a dairy. He didn’t break any laws,” said a family member. “These men didn’t wait for police. They just beat him to death.”
The family has urged authorities to treat the case as murder. They demand full justice and strict punishment for all involved.
Pattern of Vigilante Violence
This case is not the first of its kind. Attacks in the name of cow protection have occurred in several states. Victims are often Muslims or members of Dalit communities involved in cattle trade.
Between 2015 and 2018, India saw multiple such attacks. In Rajasthan, Pehlu Khan was lynched despite carrying legal documents. In Gujarat, four Dalit men were flogged in public in Una. These cases drew national and global attention.
Critics argue that cow protection has become a shield for mob violence. Human rights activists blame growing religious polarization and weak legal enforcement. “Mob justice is being used as a tool of hate,” said a lawyer in Bhopal.
Doubts Over Police Neutrality
Although the police have begun investigating the case, some observers question their neutrality. The FIR against Junaid raises eyebrows. Many feel it shifts the focus away from the murder. “When someone is killed by a mob, the priority must be the victim’s justice,” said a journalist covering the case.
The arrests have given the family some hope. But they remain concerned that the accused may escape strict punishment. They also fear pressure from local groups that support cow protection.
Legal and Political Reactions
Civil rights groups have condemned the attack. Many are calling for an impartial inquiry. They also want compensation for Junaid’s family and medical help for Armaan. Some political leaders have demanded better safeguards against mob violence.
In the state assembly, opposition members raised the issue. They asked the government to take strong action and prevent further attacks. Human rights organizations are also planning to file reports with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
What Happens Next?
Investigators are still collecting evidence and looking for more suspects. The family plans to take the case to court. They believe only legal pressure will ensure justice.
This incident has reopened debates on cow protection laws, religious violence, and the role of vigilante groups. Many believe the law must be clear. Protecting animals should never justify attacks on people.
