Idar: Ashokbhai Chaudhary (42), a resident of Zinzva village in Idar taluka, died Monday after reportedly suffering health complications following exposure to tear gas during a protest at Sabar Dairy in Himatnagar. His sudden death has sparked outrage, with political leaders and his family demanding accountability.
Ashokbhai had joined fellow cattle rearers in a demonstration against reduced milk fat prices offered by Sabar Dairy. Protesters alleged that compared to last year, the dairy had fixed the current year’s significantly lower, and accused the management of underpaying them. Tensions escalated when police prevented the group from entering the dairy compound to present their demands, leading to a confrontation and the use of tear gas.
One of the tear gas shells reportedly landed near Ashokbhai’s feet. He soon began experiencing dizziness and breathing issues. His brother, Devendrabhai Chaudhary, said Ashokbhai was taken to a nearby hotel to recover. After resting briefly, they began returning home. However, as they reached Kanpur around 4:30 p.m., his condition worsened. A local doctor noted his blood pressure had dropped and advised immediate hospitalization. Ashokbhai was taken to a private hospital in Idar, where he was declared dead.
His death triggered a wave of grief and protest, especially in Sabarkantha and Idar. The deceased’s family, originally based in Mumbai, had come to their native village for seasonal farming. “We’ve lost a son, a brother, we demand justice,” Devendrabhai said.
Adding his voice to the outrage, Member of Parliament Shaktisinh Gohil posted on X: “Deeply saddened to learn that Ashokbhai Chaudhary from Zinzva village, Idar taluka, has been martyred while standing with cattle rearers at Sabarkantha Dairy to claim their rightful dues. May God grant eternal peace to his soul and strength to his grieving family… The government must immediately consult with the dairy board to address the fair demands of cattle rearers and provide adequate compensation to the victim’s family. Strict action must be taken against those responsible for the excessive force and the tragic death.”
As investigations continue, the incident has ignited broader questions about police conduct, farmers’ rights, and administrative accountability in handling peaceful protests.
Also Read: Family Holds Symbolic Funeral For Missing 22 Year Old After Vadodara Bridge Collapse