In a disturbing incident reported from Durgapur, West Bengal, two individuals have been arrested for assaulting two Muslim men who were transporting cattle for agricultural purposes. The incident occurred on Thursday near Gammon Bridge under the jurisdiction of Coke Oven police station.
According to law enforcement, the victims were stopped by a group of men while traveling in a pickup van carrying cattle. The attackers then proceeded to beat them, tie their hands, and humiliate them by forcing them to perform sit-ups — a punishment-style act that was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media.
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Police have confirmed that the cattle were being transported legally from the Asuria market in Bankura district. The Commissioner of Police for Asansol-Durgapur, Sunil Kumar Chaudhary, stated that the victims had valid reasons for moving the animals, intended for use in farming.
Authorities further revealed that one of the main accused, who was allegedly seen tying the victims and directing the abuse in the viral footage, is a known youth leader affiliated with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). A formal First Information Report (FIR) has been filed, and additional raids are ongoing to apprehend others involved.
The West Bengal Police issued a strong statement via social media, emphasizing their stance against communal violence:
Two persons belonging to the minority community, while carrying cattle for farming purpose, were detained and severely beaten up yesterday in Durgapur by some hooligans belonging to a particular political party. A case has been registered over the incident and two of the… pic.twitter.com/ynLwciWAhE
— West Bengal Police (@WBPolice) August 1, 2025
“Nothing and no one will be allowed to dent our state’s tradition of inclusivity and harmony. We always have, and always will, demonstrate zero tolerance for religious bigotry of any kind.”
This incident has raised concerns over rising intolerance and vigilante actions under the guise of cow protection, prompting calls for strict action and justice for the victims.
