PATNA — A Muslim farmer in Bihar’s Bettiah district has alleged that he was assaulted by a group of self-styled cow vigilantes who accused him of cattle trading and attempted to lynch him while he was taking a calf home.
The victim, Sheikh Nanhe, a resident of Khadda Kujalhi village under the Nautan police station area, has lodged a complaint naming two individuals. Police officials said the matter is under investigation.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred when Nanhe was returning home after purchasing a calf for Rs 2,800. He said he had bought the animal to rear it.
On the way, he was allegedly stopped by a group of men who accused him of being involved in cattle trade. Nanhe said the men claimed to be linked to Hindu organisations and began questioning him on the roadside.
“I told them clearly that I am a farmer and bought the calf to rear at home,” Nanhe said. “I begged them to listen to me, but they did not stop beating me.”
He alleged that despite repeated pleas, the group assaulted him severely. “I kept asking for mercy. I said I am not a trader. I am poor and wanted to raise the calf. But they kept hitting me,” he said.
Nanhe further alleged that the attackers recorded a video of the assault and later shared it on social media. The clip reportedly went viral, creating tension in the area.
Residents said the incident has caused fear among members of the minority community.
A local resident, requesting anonymity, said, “People are scared. If someone can be beaten like this on suspicion, what safety do ordinary farmers have?”
Following the incident, Nanhe filed a written complaint at Nautan police station, naming two accused persons. A police officer said, “We have received the complaint. The matter is being investigated. Action will be taken based on the evidence.”
Officials have appealed for calm and urged people not to circulate unverified information.
The incident has renewed concerns over mob violence in Bihar, particularly cases where Muslims are targeted on suspicion of cow slaughter, cattle trade or theft.
In December 2025, in Nawada district, a cloth seller named Mohammad Athar Hussain was allegedly beaten by a mob and later died during treatment. Reports said he was attacked after his identity was questioned.
In 2025, in the Bahadurganj area of Kishanganj district, a man identified as Sabbir Alam was beaten to death by a crowd on suspicion of theft. In January 2026, in Madhubani, a Muslim labourer was reportedly assaulted after being called a “Bangladeshi”.
Community members say such incidents deepen fear and mistrust.
A social worker in Bettiah said, “The law should deal with crime. No group has the right to take the law into its own hands. Violence in the name of religion only harms society.”
Nanhe is currently recovering from his injuries. He said he is seeking justice and safety for his family.
“I work hard to feed my children,” he said. “If buying a calf to rear can put my life in danger, then how will we live?”
Police officials said further details will be shared after preliminary findings.
For many in the district, the incident has reignited debate over mob violence, religious suspicion and the need for strict enforcement of the rule of law to protect all citizens.
