BJP MLA Statement on Mosques Triggers Communal Tension in Uttar Pradesh’s Bilhaur

A controversial statement by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Rahul Bachcha Sonkar, the MLA from Bilhaur in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur district, has sparked communal tension following an alleged cow slaughter case.

The incident followed the discovery of prohibited animal remains near a local temple, prompting protests by Hindu groups, including Bajrang Dal activists, who demanded swift action against those allegedly involved in cow slaughter and meat smuggling. Police arrested two suspects, sealed a slaughter unit linked to an individual identified as Rehman Qureshi, registered a case against eight people, and sent samples for forensic examination.

During a visit to the Bilhaur police station on Tuesday, Sonkar issued a 48-hour ultimatum to authorities to make further arrests. His remarks, reported by local media, were widely criticised as offensive to Muslim religious sentiments and escalated concerns within the local Muslim community.

Civil rights groups and community leaders condemned the statement, calling for accountability and restraint. Police later suspended four officers, including the local station house officer, citing negligence. Authorities said investigations into both the alleged slaughter and the remarks are continuing.