Tensions flared in Mathura after the death of a cow vigilante, Chandra Shekhar, also known as Farsa Baba, in a road accident early Saturday morning. The incident occurred on the Agra-Delhi highway near the Kotvan border and led to large-scale protests, traffic disruption and clashes with authorities.
What happened on the highway
According to district officials cited by Hindustan Times, Farsa Baba and a disciple had stopped a container truck on suspicion of transporting cattle. The vehicle, which had a Nagaland registration number, was checked and reportedly found to be carrying soap, phenyl and shampoo.
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During this time, a Rajasthan-registered truck loaded with wire approached the spot. District magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh said that due to dense fog and low visibility, the truck rammed into the group. Farsa Baba died on the spot, while the driver of the truck sustained injuries.
Supporters of Farsa Baba alleged that he was deliberately run over by cow smugglers when he tried to intercept a vehicle. These claims spread quickly, leading to anger among locals.
Protesters blocked the highway and engaged in stone-pelting. Videos circulating on social media showed damage to police and administrative vehicles during attempts to clear the road.
Police response and injuries
Authorities moved in to control the situation and restore order. The administration reported that six police personnel and a similar number of protesters were injured during the clashes.
DIG, Agra range, Shailesh Pandey said the situation is now under control. He added that a fair investigation will be conducted and action will be taken against those responsible, including individuals involved in the unrest.
Situation brought under control
By the afternoon, officials managed to clear the highway and resume traffic movement. The administration also appealed for calm and assured that all aspects of the incident would be examined.
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The incident took place on the same day President Droupadi Murmu was visiting Mathura, around 25 kilometre from the site, where she participated in religious activities at Govardhan as part of her Uttar Pradesh visit.
