PATNA — A shocking case of mob lynching in Bihar’s Chhapra has triggered widespread public outrage after a viral video emerged, casting serious doubt on the police’s claim that the incident was merely a “mutual dispute.” The victim, identified as Zakir Qureshi, was brutally beaten to death in broad daylight, allegedly over a false accusation of cattle theft.
In the disturbing video that has since gone viral, a mob is seen mercilessly thrashing Zakir Qureshi. A woman in the footage is seen pleading with the mob to stop, even trying to shield Zakir from further assault. However, the attackers are seen shouting at her and forcing her away.
क्या CM @NitishKumar इंसाफ करेंगे?
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बिहार: छपरा में ज़ाकिर की पीट-पीटकर हत्या की घटना
जिस मामले में पुलिस आपसी विवाद बताकर टालने की कोशिश कर रही है, वहीँ पीड़ित परिवार साफ़ कह रहा है कि ज़ाकिर और उसके भाई पर झूठा पशु चोरी का आरोप लगाकर बेरहमी से पीटा गया। pic.twitter.com/mOIdJ9KCHn
The footage has raised serious questions about the conduct of the local police, who initially dismissed the incident as a personal feud between two parties.
According to the family of the deceased, Zakir Qureshi and his brother Nehal Qureshi were falsely accused of cattle theft by two individuals—Pankaj Kumar and Mintu Rai—who then incited a group to attack them. Zakir succumbed to his injuries before he could be treated, while Nehal remains hospitalised in critical condition.
“Zakir was killed without any evidence or investigation. They made a false claim and took the law into their own hands,” said a family member who wished to remain anonymous.
Local journalist Shams Siddiqui strongly criticised the police’s handling of the case. “Describing this heinous act as a ‘mutual dispute’ is not only shameful but also emboldens criminal elements in society,” he said. “It rubs salt into the wounds of the grieving family and undermines public trust in law enforcement.”
He demanded an impartial investigation and strict legal action to prevent future incidents of mob violence. “This culture of mobocracy must be rooted out. Zakir’s death should serve as a wake-up call,” he added.
The Chhapra City Police, however, initially stated that the incident occurred due to a quarrel between two parties in Khanua locality on 11 May 2025. According to their version, both Zakir and Nehal were attacked with sticks during a physical confrontation, and a case has been registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including 126(2)/115(2)/125(B)/109/103(1)/352/351(2)/3(5).
The FIR was reportedly lodged on the basis of a statement given by injured survivor Nehal Qureshi.
The police confirmed that two main accused, Pankaj and Mintu Rai, have been arrested. “Both have confessed to their involvement in the crime,” a police spokesperson said. “A special team has been deployed to track down the remaining accused, who will be arrested soon.”
The police also assured that the culprits will face a speedy trial.
Civil rights groups, local residents, and activists have condemned both the vigilante justice and the police’s downplaying of the crime. Social media has been flooded with posts demanding #JusticeForZakir and calling for accountability.
“This isn’t just a murder. It’s a hate crime disguised as street justice,” said a user on X (formerly Twitter). “We need action, not excuses.”
Notably, many political leaders have remained silent on the issue, raising concerns among the minority community about selective justice and protection under the law.
“This silence is dangerous,” said a local activist. “When such killings are treated casually, it sends a signal that Muslim lives are disposable. Bihar’s government must act firmly.”
This case adds to a growing list of mob lynching incidents across India, many of which involve accusations of cow slaughter or theft. Critics argue that mob justice has become a frightening trend and urge lawmakers to enforce stronger anti-lynching laws.
With the video evidence now contradicting the police version, demands have grown for a judicial inquiry and suspension of officials involved in the alleged cover-up.
“This is not just about Zakir,” said journalist Shams Siddiqui. “This is about the rule of law. Either we uphold it, or we let mobs rule our streets.”
