Minister Pralhad Joshi Claims a Coordinated Network Behind Love Jihad Incidents in Karnataka
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Hubballi, April 11 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution, and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi voiced concerns on Saturday, suggesting that a “systematic network” exists behind the incidents referred to as love jihad. He asserted that these occurrences are not only happening across the nation but are also more prevalent in states ruled by the Congress party.
During a press briefing in Dharwad, Joshi urged the state government to tackle the love jihad issue earnestly, cautioning against a scenario that might incite people to protest on the streets.
When questioned about the recent by-elections, he stated that since the voting has concluded, it would be wise to await the results.
Joshi also raised alarms regarding the law-and-order situation in Karnataka, deeming it a significant concern.
He accused the police of engaging in widespread corruption, particularly in the transfers, involving substantial sums of money, and claimed these practices have become routine.
In reference to a recent incident involving the murder of a Youth Congress leader, he alleged that a fellow Congress leader was responsible for the crime.
“I learned about this through media reports. If such an incident can occur to a Congress leader, it reflects the state of law and order,” he commented.
It is noteworthy that tensions flared in Hubballi, Karnataka, last Friday, following accusations of love jihad involving a Muslim youth and a Hindu girl, resulting in clashes between Hindu organizations and the boy’s family.
The situation escalated further as members of Hindu organizations protested outside the Old Hubballi police station, with numerous activists demanding stringent action against the accused youth.
According to police reports, the youth, identified as Sameer, a gym trainer from Vijayanagar, was seen in the company of the girl he met at the gym.
Members of Hindu organizations intervened, claiming that the relationship was a case of love jihad. They detained Sameer and handed him over to the Old Hubballi police.
The conflict intensified when Sameer’s family allegedly entered the girl’s residence, accusing her family of kidnapping him and causing a disturbance. They reportedly also attempted to assault during this confrontation.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and BJP Member of Parliament, former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar, visited the family of the love jihad victim in Hubballi at separate times to offer their condolences.