Bhopal, June 24
A case of vigilantism has come to light in the Hata police station area of Damoh district in Madhya Pradesh, where two farmers transporting bulls for agricultural use were allegedly assaulted by self-styled cow protectors (Gau Rakshaks).
The assailants, suspecting that the farmers were smuggling cattle, intercepted them late on Monday night and forcibly took them, along with the animals, to the local police station.
A video of the farmers alleging assault later surfaced on social media.
The victims, identified as Puran and Bharat Yadav from Kalakot village under the Kumhari police station area, were transporting four bulls purchased from Bakswaha in Chhatarpur district.
Despite presenting valid purchase receipts, the farmers were reportedly beaten by the group of vigilantes before being handed over to the police.
Hata police station incharge and Investigating Officer Dharmendra Upadhyay confirmed that the bulls had been legally acquired and were being transported for farming purposes.
“Some local 'Gau Rakshaks' detained and interrogated them. After verification, all parties were allowed to go,” the officer said.
However, when asked about visible injuries on Bharat Yadav’s face, as seen in the purported video, Dharmendra Upadhyay claimed that no complaint was lodged and no injuries were observed when the farmers arrived at the police station.