Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh — Tension gripped Gorakhpur after the tragic killing of a 19-year-old NEET aspirant, Deepak Gupta, who lost his life in an alleged attack by suspected cattle smugglers late on the night of September 16.
The incident has ignited widespread anger, violent protests, and a massive police crackdown across the district.
Deepak, a resident of Jungledhusar village, was diligently preparing for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) with dreams of becoming a doctor. His life was cut short when, according to villagers, he attempted to confront and drive away cattle smugglers who had entered the area past midnight.
Police investigations revealed that around 12:30 am, three vehicles carrying suspected smugglers infiltrated the village and began untying cattle. Alarmed by the commotion, villagers raised a cry, prompting Deepak to chase after the intruders.
Reports from locals claim he was shot dead, while police maintain that he was pushed and fatally injured after a fall. His lifeless body was later discovered near Saraiya village, roughly four kilometers away from his home.
People are claiming that firing took place, but prima facie, it does not appear that any injury has been caused by firing,” stated SSP Gorakhpur Raj Karan Nayyar, while confirming that five special police teams have been deployed to track down the culprits.
Protests and Clashes with Police
News of the youth’s death spread rapidly, sparking violent protests in the early hours of Tuesday. Villagers intercepted one of the smugglers’ vehicles, setting it ablaze, while another managed to escape. One suspect was caught and beaten by the mob.
By morning, crowds had escalated their protest by blocking the Gorakhpur-Pipraich road, demanding justice.
The situation turned volatile when protestors began pelting stones at the police. The clashes left Superintendent of Police (North) Jitendra Srivastava and Pipraich station in-charge Purushottam injured.
Forces from four police stations, along with a Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) unit, were rushed to control the law-and-order situation. Traffic on the main road was paralyzed for several hours.
Police Accountability and Suspensions
In the wake of mounting anger, SSP Gorakhpur ordered the suspension of all police personnel posted at the Jungle Dushan outpost, citing serious negligence in preventing the incident. Furthermore, officers of the Pipraich police station outpost were also suspended.
Senior officers, meanwhile, engaged in dialogue with villagers and Deepak’s family in an attempt to pacify the situation and restore normalcy.
Crackdown on Cow Slaughter Gangs
The tragedy prompted ADG (Law & Order) Amitabh Yash to personally arrive in Gorakhpur and assume command of the operations.
He announced a targeted crackdown named “Operation Gokshi”, focusing on the infamous cattle smuggling and cow slaughter gangs that have been operating with impunity.
According to initial investigations, the gang responsible for Deepak’s killing is believed to be from Gopalganj (Bihar). As part of the intensified campaign, five police teams and the Special Task Force (STF)’s Gorakhpur unit have been mobilized.
Police sources indicated that suspects have already been identified, and arrests are expected imminently. Our operation is underway in the village.
Further updates will be shared soon. Those injured during the clashes are receiving treatment, and additional police reinforcements have been deployed,” SSP Nayyar confirmed.
A Community in Mourning
Deepak Gupta’s killing has not only devastated his family but also triggered grief across the region. For many, he represented the aspirations of rural youth striving for academic success.
His untimely death has once again raised questions about the growing menace of cattle smuggling gangs and the accountability of local law enforcement.
Authorities have assured that those responsible will face the strictest legal consequences, while villagers continue to demand swift justice for the young aspirant whose dreams were brutally extinguished.
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