Muslim Man Killed, Another Critical After Attack by Cow Vigilantes in India’s Madhya Pradesh

Bhopal, June 18, 2025 — A 35-year-old Muslim man, Junaid Qureshi, died Tuesday after succumbing to injuries from a violent mob attack by self-styled cow vigilantes in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen district. His companion, Armaan, remains in critical condition.

The attack occurred on June 5, when the two men — both residents of Bhopal — were transporting seven cows and a bull in a pickup truck near Mehargaon village. They were stopped by a group of 20–25 men, who accused them of smuggling cattle for slaughter and proceeded to beat them, reportedly overnight.

Family members say the cattle were being transported for Qureshi’s dairy business and that the assailants also looted ₹2 lakh in cash. Disturbing videos of the assault have since gone viral online.

The victims were admitted to Hamidia Hospital in Bhopal, where Qureshi died and Armaan remains in intensive care.

Police have registered a case under charges including attempt to murder and rioting, arresting 3–4 suspects so far. More than 10 individuals are still absconding, and a manhunt is underway.

In a controversial move, police also registered a counter-FIR against Qureshi under the Cow Slaughter and Animal Cruelty Acts, based on a complaint by a local workshop owner who alleged the cattle were destined for slaughterhouses — a claim refuted by the victims’ families.

The case has reignited public debate on vigilante justice, minority safety, and the misuse of cow protection laws in India.

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