West Bengal: Youth lynched on suspicion of cow theft

A mob in the Matigara area of north West Bengal allegedly lynched a youth and critically injured another on suspicion of cow theft. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday near the banks of the Balasan River in the Tarabari area.

According to police, local residents became suspicious of a group of youths traveling in a car and chased the vehicle. Two youths were apprehended while others fled. The situation escalated into violence, resulting in the death of one individual at the scene and leaving the second in critical condition at a nearby hospital.

Following the assault, the mob allegedly vandalized and set fire to two vehicles. A large contingent from the Matigara police station arrived to restore order. Authorities have arrested four people in connection with the lynching and vandalism, and an investigation is ongoing to identify further suspects. Local residents noted that previous incidents of cattle theft in the area had contributed to heightened tensions.