In UP’s Ghaziabad, Muslim truck driver and cleaner faced violent attack and wrongful accusations of carrying cow meat by Hindu organisations; highlighting ongoing harassment of Muslims under guise of cow protection
GHAZIABAD – A disturbing incident unfolded on Tuesday night in the Bhojpur police station area of Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, where a Muslim truck driver and his cleaner were violently targeted by Hindu groups accusing them of carrying cow slaughter remains. The truck was stopped forcibly, searched, and set on fire by members of so-called cow protection outfits, adding to the growing concerns over religious harassment in the state.
The truck, which was transporting meat, was surrounded by local Hindu organisations and ‘gau rakshaks’ (cow protectors). On inspection, the group found meat remains inside, which sparked anger. Without verifying facts or allowing calm investigation, the mob attempted to torch the vehicle, terrifying the driver and his helper.
Eyewitnesses reported that members of Bajrang Dal and other Hindu groups quickly gathered at the scene, further escalating the situation. Videos circulating on social media show smoke billowing from the truck as the assailants tried to destroy it. Despite the police arriving promptly to control the situation and extinguish the flames, tensions remained high.
One witness said, “They didn’t care about the driver’s safety or whether the meat was actually banned. They acted like judges and executioners, creating fear among innocent people.” Another local resident added, “This is not the first time Muslims have been targeted in this way. It feels like a witch hunt under the name of protecting cows.”
The police managed to douse the fire by removing the truck’s tarpaulin, which had caught fire and spread to a nearby bogie carrying cow dung cakes. The officers also took the driver and cleaner, along with two others, into custody for questioning. The Hindu groups, however, were not satisfied and demanded stringent action against the truck operators, claiming they were involved in illegal cow meat trade.
Officials at the Bhojpur police station stated, “We are investigating the matter thoroughly and are working to ensure the safety of all involved. Vigilance will be increased in the area to prevent further incidents.” However, locals remain apprehensive, fearing more such attacks unless immediate and firm measures are taken.
This incident echoes a recent violent attack in Aligarh, where four Muslim youths were assaulted and their vehicle set ablaze on similar accusations. Rights activists and community leaders have condemned these acts, warning that such vigilantism is worsening communal divides and targeting innocent Muslims.
Maulana Shafiq, a respected community leader, said, “These so-called cow protectors are using religion to justify violence and intimidation. This harassment of Muslims must stop immediately. We urge the authorities to protect citizens regardless of their faith and bring the perpetrators to justice.”
The driver of the truck, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals, shared, “I was terrified. They surrounded us without any proof and tried to burn our truck. We are honest workers, just trying to earn a living. This kind of harassment should not happen to anyone.”
Local human rights groups have called for an independent inquiry into these repeated attacks, stating that the misuse of cow protection laws is being exploited to harass and intimidate Muslims, fueling communal tension.
As tensions rise, the community hopes that the police will act swiftly to safeguard all residents, ensuring that no one suffers violence or discrimination because of their religion or livelihood.
