Kamal Ghorui
MATHURA: Massive chaos erupted on the Delhi–Agra Highway in Uttar Pradesh’s Mathura after the death of a cow vigilante triggered protests, stone-pelting, and clashes with police, leaving several personnel injured and vehicles vandalised.The unrest followed the killing of Chandrashekhar, popularly known as “Farsa Wale Baba,” a local cow protection activist, who died during a late-night chase near Navipur village under Kosi Kalan police limits. According to initial reports, he was pursuing a truck on his motorcycle after suspecting cattle smuggling when a vehicle allegedly rammed into him, killing him on the spot.However, Mathura SSP Shlok Kumar said the incident may have been accidental. “The truck that Pharsa Baba stopped contained grocery goods, and the truck that collided with him was loaded with wire. This truck is from Rajasthan. The accident happened due to dense fog. Action is ongoing,” he said, indicating that claims of cattle smuggling are still being verified.Soon after news of the death spread, locals and cow vigilantes gathered in large numbers and blocked the Delhi–Agra Highway in the Chhata area early Friday, leading to long traffic snarls and disruption for several hours. The protest quickly escalated as angry demonstrators clashed with police.Stone-pelting was reported during the confrontation, with several police personnel and dozens of locals injured. Around half a dozen police vehicles were vandalised in the violence. Authorities said the situation worsened after police attempted to disperse the crowd, leading to further tensions.Police confirmed that one accused was apprehended at the scene and handed over by locals, while three others managed to flee. Search operations are underway to trace the absconding suspects.Chandrashekhar was known in the Braj region for his involvement in cow protection activities, and his death sparked grief and anger among supporters. Some local leaders said protesters were eventually persuaded to disperse after officials intervened and appealed for calm.Amid the escalating situation, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the incident and ordered strict action against those responsible.“The accused will not be spared under any circumstances,” the chief minister said, directing officials to ensure swift justice and maintain law and order.Heavy police deployment has been made in the area to prevent further unrest, and authorities are examining the vehicles involved while continuing to verify the sequence of events, including the initial claims of cattle smuggling.Officials have urged the public to maintain peace as the investigation continues, even as the incident once again highlights the volatile nature of confrontations involving vigilante groups on suspicion of cattle transport.
