A major controversy has erupted in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, after authorities discovered alleged cow slaughter at a municipal slaughterhouse, triggering widespread protests from right-wing Hindu organisations and opposition Congress activists.
The issue came to light on December 17, 2025, when activists from saffron outfits, including Sanskriti Bachao Manch and Hindu Utsav Samiti, intercepted a truck carrying over 25 tonnes of meat near the state police headquarters in Jahangirabad, claiming it contained cow meat. Initially, Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) doctor Beni Prasad Gaur certified the meat as buffalo, but a later forensic examination at the Veterinary College laboratory in Mathura confirmed it was cow or progeny meat—a serious violation, as cow slaughter is banned in Madhya Pradesh and carries strict penalties.
Police investigations revealed the meat originated from a BMC-operated slaughterhouse in Jinsi, which is permitted to process only buffaloes. Following the discovery, the BMC sealed the facility on January 9.
On Tuesday, Madhya Pradesh Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya directed the immediate suspension of Dr. Beni Prasad Gaur and ordered an in-depth probe by the civic body. Police investigations are ongoing, including examining potential collusion by municipal staff. Two individuals had been arrested earlier in connection with the case.
The revelations have sparked massive protests across Bhopal. Activists from Bajrang Dal, Karni Sena, and other saffron groups staged demonstrations on Monday and Tuesday, accusing the BJP-led state government of protecting those involved in cow slaughter and illegal meat transport. Congress leaders also joined, accusing the BMC and city officials of ignoring repeated warnings since December.
Bhanu Hindu of Jai Maa Bhavani Hindu Organisation said, “Our sentiments have been hurt. We will not tolerate this. A memorandum is being submitted to the Chief Minister demanding strict action.” Protesters are calling for the demolition of the slaughterhouse, which began operations in October 2025, and action against Aslam ‘Chamda’ Qureshi, the alleged prime accused. Sources suggest he may be a front for more influential players behind the illegal trade.
The controversy has also caused a stir within the BMC. Congress corporators raised objections, with S. Zaki, the leader of opposition, saying, “We have been trying to bring this matter to everyone’s notice since December, but it has fallen on deaf ears. If no action is taken even now, we will be forced to take strong steps.” BJP corporator Devendra Bhargava threatened to resign if no strict action was taken, adding, “It is shameful that this happened in our city and went unnoticed. I have given a deadline to the corporation. If no action is taken, I will resign.”
Responding to the unrest, BMC chairman Kishan Suryavanshi, Mayor Malti Rai, and local MLA and cabinet minister Vishwas Sarang assured the public of strict action. “No one will be spared in cases related to cow slaughter or beef trade. Whether a trader or an official, the strictest action will be taken against anyone found guilty. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has issued clear and firm instructions,” they said.
Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports suggest that some meat from the sealed slaughterhouse may have been exported to Gulf countries, including the UAE, via Maharashtra and Chennai. Investigations into these claims are ongoing as protests and public outrage continue across the city.
