Tensions flared in Meerut on Thursday after a severed head, suspected to be of a calf, was discovered on a road, provoking anger among locals.
The discovery led to fears that it was a deliberate act aimed at disrupting the peace ahead of Diwali.
Medical Police Station in-charge Shailesh Kumar suggested the possibility that a stray dog may have dragged the severed head to the location.
“It appears that a dog brought it from somewhere and left it on the street,” he stated.
Despite this, the police registered a case under sections 3/8 of the Uttar Pradesh Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act against unknown individuals and launched an investigation.
"We are reviewing footage from nearby cameras. Anyone found guilty will not be spared," Kumar assured.
Local Hindu activists, including Sachin Sirohi, staged protests, alleging a conspiracy.
“This is a conspiracy to disrupt the peace in the city, especially on a festival," Sirohi said.