Asaduddin Owaisi Criticizes Uttar Pradesh Government Over Lynching Incident
Hyderabad: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi has sharply criticized the Uttar Pradesh (UP) government for its inaction regarding the recent lynching case in Moradabad. The Hyderabad MP’s comments came on Sunday, January 5, following the brutal killing of a Muslim man who was allegedly beaten to death by a mob over accusations of cow slaughter.
Owaisi condemned the UP government and police for failing to act against the accused, emphasizing the need for justice in such cases. He directed his criticism toward UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, stating, “Killing a person is still a crime in India, even if the person is a Muslim, and Uttar Pradesh is still a part of India.” Owaisi also urged the police to fulfill their duties and ensure that the accused do not go unpunished. He added, “Uttar Pradesh police, just a reminder—you are the police, not a gang of unemployed criminals disguised as cow protectors. Do justice.”
The incident in question took place on December 31, when Mohammad Shahideen Qureshi was lynched by a mob in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, over allegations that he was attempting to slaughter a cow. According to reports, Shahideen and his companions were allegedly caught near Mandi Samiti Chowki by locals who suspected them of cow slaughter. While Shahideen’s companions managed to escape, Shahideen was captured by the mob, who subjected him to a brutal beating. The assailants verbally abused him and kicked him while he was on the ground, leaving him grievously injured. A harrowing video of the assault has surfaced on social media, showing Shahideen unable to move, covered in blood.
In the aftermath of the attack, the UP police arrested Mohammad Adnan, Shahideen’s friend, in connection with the alleged cow slaughter. However, the police’s handling of the case has been questioned, as the lynching has sparked outrage and demands for accountability. Owaisi’s strong words underscore the growing concern about mob violence and the need for the authorities to take decisive action against such crimes.
The case has drawn national attention, with calls for justice for Shahideen and a closer examination of the law enforcement’s role in preventing such incidents. The incident has once again raised questions about the increasing instances of vigilante justice in the country and the responsibility of the state in safeguarding the lives of its citizens, regardless of their religion.
