By Yahind.Com Staff
Asaduddin Owaisi, AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP, has sharply criticized recent gau rakshak (cow vigilante) incidents in Hyderabad, particularly as Eid Al Adha approaches. Speaking at an Eid Milap event at Darussalam, Hyderabad, on June 8, 2025, he condemned the attacks on cattle traders transporting animals into the city, stating that such vigilantism undermines democracy and fuels anarchy. He urged the government to take swift action against those taking the law into their own hands and emphasized resolving disputes through legal means rather than violence.
Owaisi’s stance echoes his long-standing opposition to cow vigilantism, which he claims targets Muslims and Dalits with backing from the BJP and RSS. In 2023, he condemned the brutal killing of Junaid and Nasir in Haryana, labeling it an “inhuman act” by vigilante gangs allegedly shielded by the BJP. He has also slammed stringent cow protection laws in BJP-ruled states, arguing they fuel violence against minorities.
Highlighting the surge in such incidents since 2014, Owaisi noted that 63 attacks were recorded between 2010 and 2017, claiming 28 lives, mostly Muslims. He continues to demand robust action to curb vigilante groups and deliver justice to victims.
Recent incidents in Hyderabad include:
- June 1, 2025, Adibatla Incident: Tension erupted on the Outer Ring Road at Adibatla when gau rakshaks allegedly waylaid and attacked cattle traders transporting nine cattle around 10 p.m. The vigilantes manhandled the traders and forcibly took their vehicle to a gaushala. AIMIM MLC Mirza Rahmath Baig intervened, demanding stern police action against the attackers.
- June 5, 2025, Dundigal Incident: On the outskirts of Hyderabad, cow vigilantes attacked Muslim cattle traders transporting oxen, severely beating the driver and traders after pulling them from their vehicle.
- June 6, 2025, Khaisar Nagar Incident: Four youths posing as gau rakshaks were caught in Khaisar Nagar under Suraram Police Station. Locals detained two of them after growing suspicious, and police found sharp-edged weapons on their Activa two-wheeler, raising concerns about their intentions. Additional patrolling was ordered to prevent further incidents.
- May 10, 2025, Medipally Incident: Gau rakshaks attacked cattle traders transporting cattle from Bhainsa market to Hyderabad at Narapally village around 1 a.m., injuring four traders. AIMIM MLC Mirza Rahmath Baig visited the Medipally police station, demanding medical treatment for the injured and action against the attackers.
Owaisi’s remarks reflect his ongoing opposition to cow vigilantism, which he argues disproportionately targets Muslims and Dalits, often with political backing. He has consistently called for legal accountability and stronger government measures to curb such violence.
