Bhopal: Police in Madhya Pradesh’s Bhopal city have registered an FIR against unidentified persons after a Muslim man was allegedly assaulted by members of a Hindutva group over accusations linked to “love jihad”.
The incident took place on May 10 at a hotel in the Gautam Nagar area. According to police officials, 27-year-old Arif Khan was present in a hotel room with a Hindu woman when members of a Hindutva organisation allegedly entered the premises and attacked him.
Reports stated that the attackers smeared ink and cow dung on Khan’s face and paraded him through the streets. Videos circulating on social media allegedly showed slogans being raised during the incident. Some clips also appeared to show the victim being slapped while police personnel attempted to control the situation.
Police said the case has been registered at Govindpura police station following multiple complaints. Investigators are examining social media footage to identify those involved in the assault.
The woman involved later informed police that she had gone to the hotel willingly and denied allegations of coercion or forced religious conversion. Officials confirmed her statement formed part of the ongoing investigation.
Additional Commissioner of Police Monika Shukla said authorities are working to trace the accused through video evidence and other available material.
Police registered the FIR under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita related to deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
The term “love jihad” remains politically controversial in India. The Union Home Ministry has previously informed Parliament that Indian law does not recognise or define the term.
