Daijiworld Media Network - Hyderabad

Hyderabad, Oct 23: A cow vigilante named Sonu was critically injured after being shot by alleged members of a cow smuggling mafia in the Ghatkesar area on Wednesday.

Sonu, who has been active in cow protection efforts for the past five to six years, was reportedly lured by a group claiming to have information about illegal cow transportation. Upon reaching the spot, one of the men allegedly opened fire, leaving him seriously wounded. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital and is now battling for his life.

Speaking, Sonu’s mother, a resident of the Valmiki community, said her son had called her after being shot. She demanded the arrest of the accused and vowed to continue supporting the cause her son has been fighting for.

BJP leaders in Telangana have alleged that the accused is linked to the AIMIM party. BJP leader Madhavi Latha claimed that Sonu was attacked while trying to prevent cow transportation and accused the police of inaction.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy condemned the incident and said that the growing influence of cow smuggling mafias was a threat to law and order in the state. He stated that he had spoken to the DGP and senior officers regarding the matter and urged strict action.

Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao and BJP MP Eatala Rajendar also condemned the attack, alleging that AIMIM members were behind it and that the incident was intended to intimidate cow protection volunteers.

Police sources confirmed that several suspects have been detained and an investigation is underway.