Vigilantes threaten highway blockade over cop’s arrest
While Palwal police officer Radhey Shyam has been sent to judicial custody for allegedly torturing an accused in custody, cow vigilante groups have rallied in his support, demanding his release and calling the action against him “politically motivated.”
Bittu Bajrangi, a well-known cow vigilante, along with members of Bajrang Dal, led a protest in Palwal today. The group accused certain political leaders and a particular community of framing Radhey Shyam, claiming he was being targeted for his strong action against cow smuggling.
“If our demands are not met by Sunday, 200-250 people will hold huge protests and public meetings, and block the Mathura Road highway,” warned Bittu Bajrangi.
“The suspension was carried out under political pressure from people like Aftab Ahmed (Congress MLA from Nuh), who provided incorrect information to the IG. We support Radhey Shyam’s work against cow smuggling, and now people like him are being suppressed to encourage the practice.”
The protests prompted local MLA and Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam to intervene. He addressed the gathering and assured a fair and impartial investigation, urging the protesters to remain peaceful.
Radhey Shyam, a former incharge of the Cow Task Force in Nuh, was known for his tough stance on cow smuggling, which had earned him popularity among right-wing vigilante groups. However, his methods have come under legal scrutiny.
The incident under investigation dates back to December 2024, when Radhey Shyam was posted as SHO at the City Police Station in Palwal. He was accused of brutally torturing an alleged fraudster in custody, including forcing him to drink chilli paste and injecting it into his private parts.
An internal inquiry concluded on April 16, found him guilty of custodial violence. The victim also alleged religious bias on the part of the officer. Moreover, there is already another inquiry pending against Radhey Shyam for similar acts of brutality against two cybercrime suspects.
Despite this, cow vigilantes continue to back him, accusing the government of bowing to political pressure and ignoring his contributions to curbing cow smuggling.
Haryana Tribune