Mathura violence case escalates as Uttar Pradesh Police file FIR against 300 after protests over cow vigilante death. Authorities intensify crackdown, arrest suspects, and deploy heavy security amid tensions sparked by alleged conspiracy and highway unrest.
Tension gripped parts of Mathura after violent protests broke out following the death of a local cow vigilante, prompting the Uttar Pradesh Police to register a case against nearly 300 individuals. Authorities have intensified their crackdown, with multiple arrests and heavy deployment across sensitive areas to prevent further escalation.
The unrest was triggered by the death of Baba Chandrashekhar, widely known as ‘Farsa Wale Baba,’ who died in the early hours of Saturday on National Highway-19. According to police officials, the incident occurred amid dense fog conditions, leading to a fatal road accident. However, supporters of the seer alleged foul play, claiming the death was part of a larger conspiracy linked to cow smuggling activities.
Police investigations revealed that Chandrashekhar had reportedly stopped a vehicle on suspicion of cattle transportation near Navipur village in the Kosi area. While the initial vehicle was not found carrying cattle, a second truck allegedly rammed into the stationary vehicle, fatally injuring the seer. Authorities have maintained that poor visibility due to fog played a critical role in the accident.
Following the incident, large crowds gathered at the site, placing the body on the highway and blocking traffic for several hours. The protest soon escalated into violence, with demonstrators engaging in stone-pelting, vandalizing vehicles, and clashing with security forces. The disruption brought traffic on the busy highway to a standstill, affecting hundreds of commuters.
In response, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) against 22 named individuals and approximately 250 to 300 unidentified persons. Charges include rioting, attempt to murder, destruction of public property, and obstruction of government duty. Officials confirmed that around 10 to 14 suspects have already been detained or arrested, while efforts are underway to identify others involved using surveillance footage and local intelligence.
Authorities indicated that rumours circulating about the seer being targeted by cow smugglers significantly fueled public anger, contributing to the sudden escalation of violence. Police have since clarified that no evidence of cattle smuggling was found in connection with the incident, urging the public to refrain from spreading misinformation.
Senior officials have emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against those responsible for instigating violence. Additional forces have been deployed across vulnerable zones in Mathura to maintain law and order. The administration continues to monitor the situation closely, with appeals for calm and cooperation from residents.
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Despite the heavy security presence, tensions remain high in certain pockets of the district. Officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring peace while conducting a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident that sparked widespread unrest.
