In Gopalganj’s Panchdevri block, the Muslim couple faces intimidation and false accusations of cow smuggling. The accused, Pradeep Maurya, threatens them, sparking outrage on social media\
GOPALGANJ – In a troubling incident reflecting growing tensions over cow rearing, an elderly Muslim couple in Gopalganj district was allegedly stopped, threatened, and harassed by Pradeep Maurya, a leader of a Hindu organisation. The couple had purchased two cows for rearing when the confrontation occurred.
According to reports, Maurya and his associates intercepted the couple in Panchdevri block, branding them as “cow smugglers” without any legal documents or verifying their claims. A video of the incident, reportedly recorded by the accused, has quickly gone viral on social media.
The elderly man explained his side of the story, saying, “I take these cows for rearing. I always rear two to four animals for milk and business. There is nothing illegal in what I do.” Despite his repeated clarifications, the accused continued to threaten and intimidate the couple.
The elderly woman also spoke up during the confrontation, pleading, “We have bought these cows to take care of them. Why are we being treated like criminals?”
Pradeep Maurya allegedly told the couple, “I see you people every day taking cows. If I see you next time, I will tie you here,” while threatening to involve the police.
Neighbours noted that buying and transporting cows or buffaloes between villages is a common practice for milk and rearing purposes. “We see people moving livestock all the time. There is nothing illegal in taking cows for rearing,” said one resident who wished to remain anonymous.
This incident raises serious concerns about religious profiling and intimidation in rural Bihar, particularly against Muslim citizens engaged in lawful animal husbandry. Legal experts note that cow rearing is not restricted to any religion and that accusations based solely on faith constitute harassment.
Social media users have condemned the incident, with many calling for strict action against such vigilante behaviour. “No one should be threatened or harassed because of their religion. Reaping the benefits of lawful business should never become a reason for intimidation,” commented one social media user.
The viral footage of the confrontation has sparked renewed debate about religious intolerance and the safety of minority communities in India, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and enforcement of legal rights.
Officials in Gopalganj have yet to comment on the incident.
