Prominent farmer leader Rakesh Tikait narrowly escaped a major accident on Friday evening when his car collided with a Nilgai, also known as a blue bull, on the Muzaffarnagar to Mirapur bypass in Uttar Pradesh.

The incident occurred around 7:20 pm when the animal suddenly jumped in front of Tikait’s vehicle, causing a heavy impact that damaged the front of the car.

Fortunately, the airbags deployed immediately, protecting Rakesh Tikait and other passengers from any injuries.

Recalling the terrifying moment, Tikait said, “It happened in a flash.

Rakesh Tikait also stated that they could not comprehend what was happening. The airbags opened and enveloped us, saving our lives.”

Following the incident, the Bharatiya Kisan Union leader, who played a

 key role in the farmers’ protest against the farm laws, emphasised the importance of road safety and the use of seat belts. On getting information, Uttar Pradesh minister Kapil Dev Agarwal and Muzaffarnagar Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Harendra Singh Malik visited Tikait’s residence to check on the farmer leader. Speaking to reporters at his residence, Tikait said the nilgai jumped on to the     rod from the wrong side and collided with his vehicle.

“We were wearing seat belts, which gave us extra security. Everyone must wear a seat belt. Had the vehicle

been smaller, and if we were not wearing seat belts, the damage could have been greater.

“My gunman sustained minor injuries. The wild animals move at a fast speed,” Tikait said, as he urged people not to drive at a high speed.

The accident highlights the frequent incidents of Nilgai collisions on

highways in western Uttar Pradesh, posing a serious threat to drivers and the passengers.