Maharashtra's Meat Traders Face Violence and Legal Challenges
Meat traders in Maharashtra are increasingly targeted by cow vigilante groups, leading to violence and economic distress. Incidents include the 2021 abduction of Rafiq Tamboli, whose family still seeks justice, and the 2023 lynching of Affan Ansari, who died after a mob attack. In 2025, a teenager from the Dhangar community died by suicide after being assaulted by vigilantes. The Bombay High Court has directed police to investigate these cases, but many families report police inaction. With 10.25 million tonnes of meat produced in 2023-24, traders are now shifting to alternative livelihoods due to fear and harassment. The situation has led to a significant decline in the meat trade, with many markets closing and licenses not being renewed since 2014.
Published 12 days ago • 23 Nov 2025, 04:21 AM IST