In a strange incident, a BJP worker was allegedly beaten to death by alleged “gau rakshaks” (cow protectors) belonging to right-wing organisations, VHP and Bajrang Dal, for transporting two cows in his vehicle, reports News18.

The assault occurred in Udupi, Karnataka on Thursday, when the activists received a tip that Praveen Poojary along with his friend Akshay Devadiga were transporting cows. Around 20 “cow vigilantes” caught hold of them later and brutally attacked them with sharp weapons, reports India Today.

While Poojary succumbed to the injuries, his friend has been admitted to a local hospital. His condition wasn’t immediately clear. 

b’Representational image | Twitter’

Eighteen people have been arrested so far, local police officials told NDTV as they continue their hunt for the others involved.

The News18 report says that several groups have called for a massive protest in Mangalore and are demanding strict action against those guilty. 

(With inputs from PTI)

(Feature image source: Twitter | @imranbtw)