Hindus Attacked for Protesting Cow Slaughter on Bakrid [Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra]

(Reported as seen)

A serious incident of communal discord has unfolded in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, where tensions escalated over allegations of cow slaughter during Bakrid. According to reports, Islamists in the Daulatabad area allegedly slaughtered cows instead of goats, prompting Hindu activists to inform the police. This action by Hindu activists led to a violent confrontation, resulting in injuries and property damage.

On June 17th, a group of Hindu activists raised objections after discovering cows being slaughtered instead of goats on the occasion of Bakrid. They promptly informed the police, who raided the premises and confirmed the incident. In retaliation, the accused Islamists allegedly launched a violent attack on the protesting Hindus, vandalizing their vehicles and causing injuries.

A police complaint filed by a Hindu woman detailed how a group of Islamists barged into her home, searching for her husband who had reported the cow slaughter to the police. When they couldn’t find him, they allegedly molested her, threatened her life, and looted valuables, including her gold mangal sutra.

Authorities have responded swiftly, booking 19 individuals under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including dacoity, sexual harassment, house-trespass, and rioting. Political leaders, including BJP’s Sanjay Kenekar, have condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for justice and communal harmony.

Sanjay Kenekar expressed his condemnation of the attack, stating, “Muslim goons attacked Hindu women and activists for reporting cow slaughter. The police have taken prompt action to maintain peace and ensure justice.”

In response, Islamists filed a counter-complaint against Hindu individuals for allegedly intruding into a Muslim home to search for remains of slaughtered animals. This incident further escalated tensions in the area, leading to heightened community concern and police intervention.

Bakrid, or Eid-ul-Adha, is a significant Islamic festival where adherents commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Traditionally, Muslims slaughter animals according to Halal methods as part of religious observance, distributing meat to family and the needy.

The incident in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar underscores the delicate religious sensitivities and communal tensions that can arise during festivals. It highlights the importance of respectful coexistence and adherence to legal frameworks in addressing cultural practices and religious beliefs.

Authorities continue to investigate both complaints, aiming to resolve the issue peacefully and uphold communal harmony in the region. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for mutual understanding and dialogue to prevent further escalation of communal tensions.