Cow vigilante’s death in Mathura: Protest by locals trigger tension

Locals blocked the national highway in the Kosi Kalan area of Mathura and protested against the death of a cow vigilante on Saturday (March 21, 2026), who was allegedly run over by suspected cattle smugglers.

The protesters clashed with police, alleging that Chandrashekhar, a cow-protection activist and saint in the Braj region popularly known as ‘Farsa Wale Baba,’ died in the incident, which they claim was a deliberate act carried out by cattle smugglers, triggering tension in the locality.

Taking cognisance of the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to ensure strict action against the perpetrators.

“The accused will not be spared under any circumstances,” an official statement read, underlining the State’s commitment to accountability and law enforcement.

Heavy police force has been deployed in the area to control the situation.

“Chandrashekhar alias Farsa Baba, stopped a vehicle on suspicion in the Kosi police station area between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m. last night, he was tragically killed when struck by a truck coming from behind due to dense fog. The vehicle which the deceased had stopped was found to contain grocery items and the truck coming from behind was loaded with wires. This is a road accident – ​​it has nothing to do with cow smuggling. The situation has been brought under control by using necessary force against those creating law and order situations. Further legal action is being taken,” official statement from Mathura police reads.