The self-styled protectors of cows have been targeting Muslims and Dalits with impunity
Team Clarion
GURUGRAM – The political landscape in Haryana has been increasingly influenced by cow-related issues since the BJP government came to power in 2014. This shift has led to heightened activities by cow vigilantes, or “cow rakshaks,” which have frequently resulted in communal tensions.
In a recent development, cow vigilantes in Gurugram’s Nuh have demanded arms licenses, citing concerns for their safety following alleged attacks by cattle traders.
The Times of India reported that on June 25, a group of suspected cattle traders opened fire in Basrao village of Nuh. The incident involved 42-year-old Daya Ram, a trader known for his involvement in several cattle rustling operations. In response to such attacks, cow vigilantes are now collectively applying for arms licenses to protect themselves. According to the Tribune, the leader of the cow vigilantes in Mewat noted that although illegal cattle trading had briefly declined, it has surged again post-election, increasing risks for them. “We have instructed all our workers to be vigilant and obtain arms licenses,” he said. “While the police have assured us they will apprehend the culprits, we need to ensure the safety of our workers and prepare a plan of action.”
Noah, a Muslim-majority area, has a history of communal violence, with riots last year resulting in seven deaths and significant property damage. The Wire reported that local Muslims claim the area was once a hub for cattle trade, but the activities of cow rakshaks have severely restricted this market. Additionally, a suspect in an attempted murder case linked to these tensions was released on bail in June after being arrested last September.
The Caravan highlighted the broader context of cow politics in Haryana, noting that since the BJP came to power in October 2014, the state has seen stricter cow slaughter laws and increased government support for cow protection. The Gau Raksha Dal, a prominent cow protection organisation, is currently active in nine states, including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Goa, and Delhi. The organisation boasts about 5,000 volunteers, aged 18 to 40, who patrol national highways at night. Each district has two or three teams dedicated to these patrols.
However, the actions of cow rakshaks have often led to accusations of communal bias, as their targets are predominantly Muslims and Dalits, groups who do not share the same reverence for cows. The lack of reliable methods to determine whether cows are being transported for trade or slaughter, or to identify the type of meat seized, frequently escalates these situations into sectarian conflicts.
As cow vigilantes in Nuh seek arms licenses, the call for regulation and oversight of their activities grows louder. Ensuring the safety of all communities while addressing illegal cattle trading remains a complex and urgent challenge for the authorities.