The warning came amid growing attacks on Muslims linked to cattle transport ahead of Eid Al Adha
HYDERABAD — Days before Eid Al-Adha, Hyderabad police have issued a public warning against cow vigilantism, telling self-styled gau rakshak groups not to stop cattle transport vehicles, carry out forced inspections on their own, harass transporters or target people based on suspicion.
It also warned that any attempt to take the law into one’s own hands or create communal tension during the festival would invite strict action.
The warning came amid growing attacks on Muslims linked to cattle transport ahead of Eid Al Adha. This period often sees more policing and mobilisation by self-styled cow vigilante groups in several parts of the country.
At a peace committee meeting on Saturday with members of both Muslim and Hindu communities, Malkajgiri Commissioner of Police B Sumathi appealed to residents to celebrate Eid peacefully and cooperate with authorities in maintaining law and order.
The commissioner said police were closely monitoring sensitive areas through CCTV surveillance to prevent any untoward incident. She also warned that strict legal action would be taken against those spreading rumours or posting “inflammatory” content on social media.
Addressing “gau rakshak” groups, Sumathi said no individual or organisation has the right to apprehend or stop vehicles transporting cattle, carry out forceful inspections on their own, or assault people based on suspicion.
“If anyone notices suspicious activity, they should immediately inform the local police and allow the law to take its course,” she said.
Police also issued guidelines regarding Eid celebrations and asked people to carry out animal sacrifice only at locations authorised by the government.
Residents were further requested not to dump animal waste in public places and to cooperate with sanitation workers to ensure proper disposal and cleanliness during the festival.
