Muslim Youth Detained After ‘Love Jihad’ Allegations at Hapur Temple

A Muslim youth and his Hindu girlfriend were detained by police following protests by members of a Hindu organisation in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh. The incident took place on Friday at a local temple on Delhi Road.

According to reports, the young man, a resident of Anand Vihar Colony, had been in a relationship with the girl for a long time. On Valentine’s Day, the couple went to a temple carrying a rose, chocolates and a greeting card. They reportedly entered the temple premises and were talking to each other when members of a Hindu group reached the spot.

Members of the organisation claimed they were informed by the temple priest that a Muslim youth was present inside the temple with a Hindu girl. “When we reached there, we saw a Muslim boy roaming inside the temple with a Hindu girl. She had no sindoor in her hair, and they were holding hands. It appeared to be a case of love jihad,” one activist alleged. “We immediately intervened.”

Eyewitnesses said that some activists allegedly pushed the youth, after which the girl began shouting in fear. Soon, devotees gathered at the temple premises, leading to a commotion. Police from the local station arrived shortly after receiving information about the disturbance.

Sudhir Agarwal, minister of Vishva Hindu Parishad Meerut division, said, “Valentine’s Day is a symbol of Western culture that is destroying our Hindu traditions. Especially when Muslim boys target Hindu girls, it becomes a matter of concern.” He demanded that the girl be handed over to her family and that strict action be taken against the youth.

Station in charge Inspector Vinod Pandey said the couple was taken into custody and brought to the police station to maintain law and order. “During initial questioning, it was found that both are adults and had come here with mutual consent. Still, we detained them to maintain peace. Their families have been informed. If we receive any complaint, further action will be taken,” he said.