UP: public outrage in Kanpur over banned meat, 2 arrested
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Kanpur: Four police officers were suspended on Tuesday following a public outcry over the alleged recovery of banned meat in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur district.
Joint Commissioner of Police Ashutosh Kumar said that a video linked to the incident went viral on social media, triggering widespread public outrage.
“A video circulated showing what was claimed to be banned meat and bones. This led to anger among the public. Senior police officers immediately reached the spot and brought the situation under control,” Kumar said.
He added that members of several Hindu organisations gathered at the site and raised slogans, creating a tense situation.
“Despite the tension, senior officers managed the situation effectively. FIRs have been registered, and action has been initiated. There is a godown at the site, and a case has also been registered against those associated with it,” he said.
To prevent any escalation, security forces were deployed in the area.
“So far, two people have been arrested and further investigations are underway. Preliminary findings suggest that this does not appear to be a case of animal slaughter. It seems that bones and flesh were being collected. A large quantity of chemicals and salts has also been recovered from the location,” Kumar said.
He further stated that four police personnel were suspended for negligence and dereliction of duty.
“We have suspended four police officers so far due to their irresponsible handling of the matter. Investigations are continuing to identify everyone involved,” he added.
Providing an update, the Joint Commissioner said that peace has now been restored in the area.
“During the protest, some individuals damaged the glass panes of a few parked vehicles. However, no injuries have been reported. The banned items have been removed from the site,” he said.
He added that the police are making continuous efforts to maintain law and order and prevent any further deterioration of the situation.
Earlier, as the situation worsened, the police went on high alert and deployed a large force in the area. Following evidence of negligence, the Station House Officer, the outpost in charge, and two other police officers were suspended. Additional police personnel, along with the Provincial Armed Constabulary, have been deployed to ensure peace. The administration has appealed to the public to remain calm and said the situation is being closely monitored.
With IANS inputs