Cow Protection Activist Shot In Hyderabad, Critical; BJP Alleges Accused Linked To AIMIM

The incident occurred while Sonu was reportedly trying to stop an act of cow smuggling. (Image: News18)

A cow protection activist was shot and critically injured near Ghatkesar, on the outskirts of Hyderabad, on Wednesday, sparking a political storm in Telangana. The victim, identified as Sonu, also known as Prashanth, was reportedly trying to stop illegal cow transport when the incident occurred.

According to sources, one of the attackers has been identified as Ibrahim, a known rowdy sheeter. He is currently absconding. Sonu was immediately taken to hospital by Medchal District BJYM President Pawan Reddy and fellow cow protection activists. Doctors say his condition remains critical, and he is undergoing treatment.

The incident has triggered sharp reactions from the BJP, which has alleged that the attackers are linked to Asaduddin Owaisi’s party, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM).

Telangana BJP President N Ramchander Rao said, “MIM goons fired on a ‘gaurakshak’ named Prashanth Kumar alias Soni near Ghatkesar. He is in serious condition…This incident was carried out by the MIM goons to discourage the BJP and the RSS workers from taking part in gauraksha and to protect the cows.”

“This is a serious incident and the police were also earlier informed about this incident, but they are not taking any action. BJP condemns this attack on our workers and BJP condemns the police action also for not taking action against the MIM workers. The MMM person who has attacked is already on the flee…Due to the protection given by the Congress government, these people are doing such activities,” Rao added.