Cow Vigilantes’ Attacks on Sikhs and Others Highlight Rising Religious Tensions in India

Incidents of violence perpetrated by Hindu extremist cow vigilantes are once again making headlines, shedding light on the escalating religious tensions in regions governed by India’s far-right Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In Sonipat, Haryana, a Sikh truck driver fell victim to a vicious assault by cow vigilantes who not only attacked him but also utilized his turban to bind his feet. This deplorable act not only represents a physical assault but also constitutes a severe violation of the Sikh faith, which regards the turban as a sacred symbol of dignity and honor.

Similarly, in Jhajjar, cow vigilantes subjected two men to brutal violence and public humiliation under the pretext of transporting cattle. These incidents underscore a disturbing trend of self-appointed vigilante groups targeting individuals from minority communities, particularly Sikhs and Muslims, under the guise of protecting cows, which hold religious significance for Hindus.

The use of violence and intimidation by cow vigilantes not only undermines the rule of law but also fosters an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among religious minorities. Such incidents not only inflict physical harm but also inflict deep psychological trauma and erode the social fabric of communities.

These attacks are indicative of a broader pattern of religious intolerance and bigotry that has gained momentum in recent years in India, fueled by the divisive rhetoric of BJP’s ideological factions. The complicity or tacit approval of local authorities in some cases further exacerbates the situation, emboldening perpetrators to commit acts of violence with impunity.

In light of these disturbing developments, it is imperative for the Indian government to take decisive action to curb the menace of cow vigilantism and ensure the protection of religious minorities rather than inciting people against one another.