Wed Jun 25 02:19:03 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Dalit Men Humiliated in Odisha: Cow Vigilantes Force Feeding, Tonsuring Spark Outrage**
**Bhubaneswar, June 25, 2025:** A shocking incident of caste-based violence in Odisha has ignited widespread condemnation after two Dalit men were brutally humiliated by a group of alleged cow vigilantes. Babula Naik and Bulu Naik were intercepted on June 22nd while transporting cows for a marriage ceremony in Ganjam district. The assailants reportedly accused them of cattle smuggling and subjected them to horrific abuse, including forced tonsuring, eating grass, and drinking wastewater.
Ganjam Superintendent of Police Suvendu Kumar Patra stated that nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the crime, including a minor. However, three other suspects remain at large. Videos and photographs of the assault circulated widely on social media, fueling public anger and calls for justice.
Political leaders have weighed in on the incident. Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, expressed deep concern over the escalating atrocities against Dalits in BJP-ruled states, attributing the rise to the “politics of hatred and hierarchy.” He emphasized that such attacks are a direct assault on the Constitution and the values of equality. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed these sentiments, condemning the assault as “deeply shameful” and “an inhuman act that disgraces all of humanity.” She demanded swift and stringent action against the perpetrators.
The Odisha Congress has formed a fact-finding team, led by Rama Chandra Kadam, to investigate the incident and provide support to the victims. Kadam is scheduled to visit the victims today to gather firsthand information.
Police have identified the arrested individuals as Sibasankar Mohanty, Satya Sahu, Bainath Bisoyi, Omm Gouda, Ganapati Polei, Santosh Dakua, Sankar Das, and Narayan Dakua. Raja Samal remains a key suspect at large. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 