By Team Clarion
PATNA — A Muslim farmer in Bihar’s Bettiah district has alleged that he was assaulted by a group of self-styled cow vigilantes who accused him of cattle trading and attempted to lynch him while he was taking a calf home.
The victim, Sheikh Nanhe, a resident of Khadda Kujalhi village under the Nautan police station area, has lodged a complaint naming two individuals. Police officials said the matter is under investigation.
According to the complaint, the incident occurred when Nanhe was returning home after purchasing a calf for Rs 2,800. He said he had bought the animal to rear it.
On the way, he was allegedly stopped by a group of men who accused him of being involved in cattle trade. Nanhe said the men claimed to be linked to Hindu organisations and began questioning him on the roadside.
“I told them clearly that I am a farmer and bought the calf to rear at home,” Nanhe said. “I begged them to listen to me, but they did not stop beating me.”
He alleged that despite repeated pleas, the group assaulted him severely. “I kept asking for mercy. I said I am not a trader. I am poor and wanted to raise the calf. But they kept hitting me,” he said.
Nanhe further alleged that the attackers recorded a video of the assault and later shared it on social media. The clip reportedly went viral, creating tension in the area.
Residents said the incident has caused fear among members of the minority community.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.