Two men – suspected of stealing cattle in Nagaon district of Assam – were killed by the locals, according to district superintendent of police, Debraj Upadhyay.
Mr. Upadhay told journalists that the men were identified as Abu Hanifa and Riazuddin Ali, both in their early 20s. This is the first incident in Assam when anyone was chased and killed by the mob following an allegation of cow theft.
Once the mob caught hold of the men, they were severely beaten for “a long time” resulting in their death. The police said that they were taken to the hospital and were declared dead by the doctors. The incident took place in a village called Kasomori village about 150 kilometres from Guwahati.
Mr. Upadhay said that a case has been registered. According to news agency PTI , the SP has assured of “impartial enquiry” into the incident. The incident has created a huge panic among people in parts of Assam.
A “fit for slaughter” certificate is required for cow slaughter in Assam, which is otherwise banned in the State. However, beef and buffalo meat both are available in Assam. During certain Muslim festivals cows are allowed to be slaughtered in the State. However, anti-cow slaughter campaign has gained momentum in the State in recent years. The BJP came to power in Assam in 2016.
