Protests Erupt in Mathura Over Cow Vigilante's Death

Tensions flared in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, as protests erupted following the death of a cow vigilante, Chandrashekhar. Demonstrators blocked a national highway, alleging foul play by cattle smugglers. The police, however, stated that his death was an accident caused by a truck in dense fog. Clashes ensued between protesters and law enforcement, leading to stone-throwing and the use of tear gas to control the situation. Chief Minister Adityanath has called for strict action against those responsible for the unrest. Read on for more details about this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 21, 2026, 15:50 IST

Clashes in Mathura District

On Saturday, significant unrest occurred in the Kosi Kalan area of Mathura district, Uttar Pradesh, as demonstrators obstructed a national highway. This protest was sparked by the death of a cow vigilante, who reportedly was struck by a truck.

Protesters claimed that Chandrashekhar, a well-known cow vigilante and religious figure in the Braj region, was killed intentionally by cattle smugglers.

However, local police dismissed these claims, stating that Chandrashekhar had stopped a vehicle under suspicion of cattle smuggling in the early hours, between 3 am and 4 am.

According to the police, he was tragically hit by a truck due to poor visibility caused by fog. They clarified that the vehicle he had stopped was carrying grocery items, while the truck that struck him was loaded with wires.

The police emphasized that this incident was a road accident and had no connection to cattle smuggling.

The protests escalated into clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Deputy Inspector General of Police Shailesh Pandey reported that some protesters hurled stones at police personnel, prompting the use of tear gas to disperse the crowd.

Authorities have begun identifying those involved, and several arrests have already been made. In response to the unrest, Chief Minister Adityanath instructed officials to take stringent action against those responsible, asserting that the accused would face consequences.