A truck carrying five tonnes of beef from Karnataka to Hyderabad was set on fire by a mob in Ainapur on Monday night. This incident sparked a major debate and led to legal actions. AIMIM President and MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticized both the police and the increasing incidents of mob vigilantism, noting that the event took place in a “Congress-ruled state.”
The truck was stopped near the Siddeshwar temple while traveling from Kudachi in Raibag taluk, Karnataka. According to the police, angry locals, including members of right-wing groups, checked the truck, found meat, and set it on fire before authorities arrived. Firefighters could not save the truck, which was completely destroyed.
Police have filed cases under several laws. The Prevention of Cattle Slaughter Act and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act were used against those transporting the meat, with at least three people arrested. The mob faces charges of robbery and arson, with several individuals detained and questioned.
The incident ignited a heated debate on social media and among politicians. Asaduddin Owaisi challenged the Karnataka government on X, questioning the mob’s actions. He asked, “Who gave the ‘locals’ the authority to stop and inspect the vehicle? How did they know it was beef? Why were only the victims arrested?”
Right-wing groups, including local VHP and Bajrang Dal activists, are identified by press and police sources as instigators. This event highlights ongoing vigilante actions concerning cattle transport in the area. Local police have called for calm and warned that anyone acting outside the law will face charges.
