Cow Slaughter Allegations: More Than 300 Muslim Homes at Risk of Demolition in Damoh, MP

In Madhya Pradesh’s Damoh district, authorities plan to demolish over 300 houses belonging to the Qasai (butchers) community following allegations of cow slaughter, Clarion reported. Residents received notices to vacate their homes within three days, with the demolition expected before the Holi festival on March 14.

The situation escalated after Hindutva groups protested against the alleged cow slaughter, leading to the demolition of several structures in the Sitabaoli area on March 7. Local officials claimed the demolished buildings were illegal encroachments.

Damoh’s municipal council chief, Pradeep Sharma, stated that the administration has removed encroachments worth crores. Meanwhile, five individuals were arrested in connection with the cow slaughter allegations, with reports of them being paraded and coerced into chanting slogans.

The Supreme Court has previously emphasized that demolitions should not occur without a 15-day notice and adherence to legal procedures, raising concerns over these recent actions.