Assam’s Badarpur town in Sribhumi district witnessed heightened tensions on Eid after reports surfaced of alleged cow slaughter near a prominent Hindu temple. The incident occurred in a Hindu-majority neighborhood, triggering swift police action and community outrage.
According to officials, the slaughter took place close to the Sitaram Mandir, a central place of worship for local Hindu residents. Moreover, the news spread quickly on social media, drawing people onto the streets and raising fears of communal unrest.
Arrests made, investigation underway
A joint team from the Badarpur Police Station and the District Intelligence Branch acted promptly. Five individuals were arrested in connection with the alleged act. Police sources said they are all residents of a nearby locality.
“We have registered a case under relevant sections of the law, including those related to religious offenses and illegal slaughter,” said a senior police officer on duty.
The arrested individuals are being interrogated. Officials are also examining whether the act was pre-planned or a provocation aimed at disturbing communal harmony.
Heavy security deployed: Cow slaughter
To prevent escalation, additional forces from the Assam Police and CRPF were deployed in the area. Flag marches and night patrols were conducted. Further, internet services were not suspended, but the police have appealed to residents not to share unverified videos or rumors online.
“We are maintaining strict vigil. Anyone spreading misinformation will be booked under cybercrime laws,” said Karimganj SP Partha Protim Das.
He added that community elders from both sides have been contacted to help maintain peace.
Religious leaders call for calm
Hindu temple authorities and Muslim clerics issued separate appeals for restraint. In addition, the temple committee urged the administration to take strict action but also asked devotees not to react emotionally.
A prominent local imam said, “Islam teaches respect for all places of worship. If the act was committed by someone from our community, we condemn it. Let the law take its course.”
Both communities joined a peace meeting chaired by district officials on Saturday evening. Leaders pledged to cooperate with the investigation.
Local politics and community response
The incident has become a flashpoint for political reactions. BJP leaders demanded strict action and increased monitoring around religious sites. “This is not just about animal cruelty. Furthermore, this is about provoking Hindu sentiments,” said a BJP district leader.
Opposition parties, including the Congress and AIUDF, condemned the incident while also warning against using it for political gain. “Let the facts come out first, the priority is peace,” said AIUDF’s local unit president.
Residents of the area held a candlelight vigil on Saturday night, calling for justice and communal harmony. Moreover, several placards read, “We want peace, not provocation.”
Legal provisions and religious sensitivity
Cow slaughter is prohibited in many parts of Assam under the Assam Cattle Preservation Act, 2021. Although, offenses under this law can lead to imprisonment up to five years and fines.
Authorities said they are verifying whether the alleged slaughter violated this law. Further, if confirmed, the accused will face additional charges under sections relating to public mischief and religious incitement.
This case adds to a series of religious tension incidents across northeastern India in recent years, prompting calls for stricter monitoring around religious and cultural hotspots.
Government assurance and next steps
The Sribhumi district administration has assured a fair and speedy investigation. “We will examine CCTV footage, social media evidence, and witness statements. Also, no one guilty will be spared,” said Deputy Commissioner Aditi Dutta.
The administration is also planning to install surveillance cameras around all major temples and religious sites as a preventive step.
Call to Action
Authorities have requested the public to remain calm and report any suspicious activity. For verified updates, follow the official Assam Police website and the district administration’s social media channels.
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