A widespread shutdown and significant protests gripped Pokhran town in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district on Saturday. The demonstrations were a direct response to the alleged illegal slaughter of a bull in nearby Kelawa village on January 7 and the subsequent discovery of an illegal slaughterhouse in the area.
Markets Shut, Heavy Police Deployment
In a show of strength, Hindu organisations enforced a complete bandh, leading to the closure of markets throughout the morning. To prevent any escalation and maintain public order, the police deployed additional forces across Pokhran. Security was particularly heightened at sensitive locations, including a local madrasa.
Arrests Made, Main Suspect Absconding
Jaisalmer Superintendent of Police, Abhishek Shivhare, provided crucial updates on the investigation. The police have confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with the bull slaughter case. Those taken into custody are:
- Gafar Khan (55)
- Murad Ali (24)
- Mohammad Sharif, also known as Kalu (23)
Authorities revealed that the main suspect, identified as Aala alias Yakub, is currently absconding. Detailed interrogations of the arrested individuals are ongoing to uncover more details about the incident.
Swift Administrative Action: Demolition and Sealing
The local administration moved rapidly amidst growing public anger. In a decisive step, the Pokhran municipality used bulldozers to demolish the house of the absconding main suspect, Yakub, located near the Ramdevsar pond. Officials stated the demolition was carried out because the structure was an encroachment on government land.
As part of a broader crackdown on illegal butcheries, authorities sealed 19 meat shops within Pokhran city limits. Furthermore, the administration expanded its anti-encroachment drive, clearing nearly 50 bighas of land in the Ramdevsar pond's catchment area. This operation removed illegal structures and a concrete wall that had been erected on government property.
The combined actions of protest, police investigation, and municipal crackdown highlight the severe tensions and official response triggered by the illegal animal slaughter in the region.
