In a landmark ruling, a Bulandshahr court convicted 38 individuals on July 30, 2025, for their roles in the 2018 Syana violence, a tragic episode sparked by rumors of alleged cow slaughter in Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district. The violence, which erupted on December 3, 2018, in Chingrawathi village, claimed the lives of two individuals: Subodh Kumar Singh, the Syana police station’s Station House Officer (SHO), and 20-year-old Sumit, both killed by gunshot wounds during a chaotic mob attack.

The court, presided over by Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADJ)-12 Gopal Ji, found five of the accused—Prashant Nat, David, Johnny, Rahul, and Lokendra Mama—guilty of murder under the erstwhile Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 302. The remaining 33 were convicted on serious charges, including rioting, arson, damaging public property, and attempt to murder. Sentencing is scheduled for August 1, 2025, marking a significant step toward justice for the victims of the unrest.

The 2018 incident began when a mob, incited by unverified claims of cow slaughter, blockaded roads and clashed with police. When officers, led by SHO Singh, attempted to de-escalate the situation, the mob turned violent, pelting stones, setting vehicles ablaze, and damaging government property. The attack culminated in the fatal shootings of Singh and Sumit, sending shockwaves through the region.

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Special Public Prosecutor Yashpal Singh Raghav, who led the prosecution, noted that charges were proven against 38 of the 44 individuals named in the original chargesheet. One accused, a minor at the time, is being tried separately in a juvenile court, while five others passed away during the trial. The prosecution’s case was bolstered by the testimony of over 27 witnesses, whose accounts were meticulously presented during the proceedings.

Senior Superintendent of Police Dinesh Kumar Singh emphasized the thorough investigation that followed the incident. A dedicated team was formed to probe the violence, resulting in a comprehensive chargesheet filed under relevant IPC sections. The convictions reflect the judiciary’s commitment to addressing mob violence and holding perpetrators accountable.

The case has reignited discussions about mob violence and communal tensions in India, particularly incidents triggered by rumors of cow slaughter, which remain a sensitive issue in parts of the country. As the court prepares to deliver sentences, the verdict serves as a reminder of the need for swift and fair justice in cases of public unrest.

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