Tension Flares in Baran Over Discovery of Severed Calf Remains
Jaipur: Tension gripped the city of Baran in Rajasthan as protests erupted over the recovery of severed remains of a calf, leading to a complete shutdown and violent clashes with police forces. The incident, which has sparked widespread outrage among cow vigilantes and right-wing organizations, began three days ago when the calf's remains were found spilled on a road under the Kotwali police station area.
Bandh Called, Markets Shut Down Amid Rising Anger
In response to the discovery, protesters called for a bandh on Monday, resulting in the complete closure of markets and a significant disruption of normal life across Baran. The protests, which had started on Sunday, intensified as demonstrators gathered at Pratap Chowk, raising slogans and taking out rallies to voice their demands.
Protesters alleged that the calf was slaughtered using sharp weapons and called for the immediate arrest of the culprits, along with a fair and transparent investigation. They shut down commercial establishments and staged sit-ins at key locations, including Chaar Murti Circle, refusing to disperse despite repeated appeals and assurances from the administration.
Police Use Force, Injuries and Arrests Reported
As the situation escalated, police resorted to force to control the angry mob. At Pratap Chowk, officers used batons to disperse the crowd, leading to clashes. According to an officer, around half a dozen protesters were taken into custody, while two individuals sustained injuries during the chaos.
Later, incidents of stone-pelting were reported near Deendayal Park, prompting police to use gas guns to bring the situation under control. District collector Rohitashva Singh Tomar and Superintendent of Police Abhishek Adanshu rushed to the spot, appealing to the public to maintain peace and order.
Administration Imposes Section 163, Deploys Additional Forces
In view of the volatile situation and the upcoming Holi festival, the district administration imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to prevent further escalation. Additional police forces were deployed from Kota city, rural areas, and Bundi district to bolster law and order efforts in Baran.
Superintendent of Police Abhishek Andasu stated that the owner of the calf maintained it was a natural death. Despite this, authorities registered a case and initiated investigations. A memorandum was taken from the protesters, focusing on the upkeep of bovines in cow shelters. Andasu added that the situation in the area was now peaceful, following the interventions.
