Khandwa, May 30 (IANS) Seven persons were arrested after cattle remains were allegedly found dumped in Badiyatula village under Mundwara Gram Panchayat late on Friday night, leading to tension and heavy police deployment in the area, officials said on Saturday.

According to police, the incident came to light around 11 p.m. when cow heads and legs packed in polythene bags were allegedly being discarded along a roadside in the Muslim-majority settlement.

As information spread, youths from neighbouring Sihada village rushed to the spot, resulting in a tense situation. Police said some vehicles were vandalised during the commotion before security personnel intervened and brought the situation under control.

Khandwa Superintendent of Police Agam Jain said an FIR was registered early on Saturday morning under the Madhya Pradesh Cow Slaughter Prohibition Act after veterinary doctors confirmed that the remains were of cattle.

“An FIR has been registered under the Madhya Pradesh Cow Slaughter Prohibition Act and legal proceedings have been initiated by the police. Within just 24 hours, seven accused individuals have been taken into custody,” Agam Jain told IANS.

Police said cattle meat and a motorcycle allegedly belonging to the accused were seized from the spot.

In view of the prevailing tension, a heavy police force from Moghat Road Police Station and Rameshwar Outpost has been deployed in the area to maintain law and order.

Agam Jain said: “Interrogation of the arrested suspects is currently underway, and other necessary legal formalities are being carried out. We acted swiftly to prevent any escalation and additional forces were deployed in sensitive areas.”

Investigators suspect that the accused were involved in slaughtering the animal, consuming the meat and disposing of the remains.

Hemant Chauhan, representative of Sihada village’s sarpanch, claimed that he received information late on Friday night regarding the alleged cow slaughter.

According to him, villagers saw a few persons fleeing on a motorcycle carrying bags containing animal remains.

Police said a few more suspects are likely to be arrested for their alleged involvement as the probe progresses.

Security forces continue to remain deployed in the area as a precautionary measure to prevent rumours and maintain peace.

Police have appealed to people not to pay heed to unverified information.

Agam Jain said: “In the future, strict action will be taken against any individuals found to be involved in such activities.”

–IANS

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