Indore, July 14: While the Congress-led Madhya Pradesh government is set to bring a bill to curb violence by gau rakshaks, another incident of cow vigilantism was reported from Indore. Cow vigilantes reportedly thrashed two persons for allegedly transporting beef. One person who was also in the vehicle managed to escape. The incident took place near Kesarbaug bridge on Sunday.

According to reports, Nadim and Imran, both in their 20s, were allegedly transporting beef when their vehicle was intercepted by unidentified cow vigilantes. The duo was reportedly beaten up and handed over to police. Speaking to a leading daily, Inspector of Rajendranagar Police Station Sunil Sharma, however, said Nadim and Imran were unhurt. He also said that beef was found in their vehicle. Cow Vigilantism in Madhya Pradesh: 24 Men Thrashed on Khandwa Street, Forced to Chant 'Gau Mata ki Jai'.

Both have been arrested for violating provisions of the state’s prohibition of cow slaughter act. No arrested has been in connection with the alleged assault. In May, Chief Minister Kamal Nath led state cabinet approved a proposal to amend the cow protection law and award jail terms ranging from six months to five years to those who indulge in violence in the name of cow vigilantism. Kamal Nath Gives Stern Warning to Gau Rakshaks, Says 'Won't Spare Those Involved in Violence in Name of Cow'.

If the proposal to amend the MP Cow Progeny Slaughter Prevention Act, 2004, gets passed by the state Assembly, those who indulge in violence in the name of cow vigilantism would face a jail term of six months to three years and attract a fine of Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000 or both. The punishment will be extended to a minimum of one- year and maximum five years in case a mob is involved in such violence.

Besides, the proposed amendment also seeks to double the punishment for repeat offenders. It also seeks to punish those who abet such violence with an imprisonment of one year to three years, a source had said, adding that people who damage property will also be punished.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2019 06:41 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).