New Delhi, Jan. 1: In a widely reported incident that unfolded in September this year, Uttar Pradesh’s Naib Tehsildar, Ashish Gupta, now identified as Mohammad Yusuf, has been removed from his post following allegations of religious conversion to marry a Muslim woman.
The controversy became known when Mohammad Mushtaq, a mosque caretaker, reported to the authorities that a non-Muslim named Ashish Gupta was frequently visiting the mosque in Maudaha for prayers. Gupta assumed his role as Naib Tehsildar in Maudaha, triggering an inquiry by the administration.
An initial inquiry found Gupta in violation of employee code, leading to his removal from the post. Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Dr. Arun Mishra stated that Gupta had been attached to the Collectorate until further notice. A report on his conduct has also been forwarded to the government. Mishra emphasized that government servants must adhere to conduct rules. Gupta’s case allegedly violated Rule 29, which prohibits polygamy, and Rule 3, which pertains to maintaining integrity without casting doubt on the administration’s image.
The wife of the accused, Aarti Gupta, filed a police complaint alleging that her husband converted to Islam to marry a Muslim woman, changing his name to Mohammad Yusuf. Three additional people were named in the FIR filed by Aarti, all of whom have been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police for their involvement in facilitating the religious conversion. The police are conducting raids to locate the Muslim woman Gupta allegedly married.
SP Hamirpur Diksha Sharma confirmed that the investigation into Aarti Gupta’s claims is ongoing. The FIR revealed details about Gupta’s family background, including his previous government jobs and relationships. A photo of Gupta, now Yusuf, offering namaz in a mosque after his conversion went viral on social media, intensifying the controversy. The maternal uncle of the Muslim girl and two mosque muezzins were sent to jail in connection with Gupta’s conversion.
