A Muslim gym trainer in Meerut has been booked and hospitalised after members of Bajrang Dal accused him of hiding his religious identity while meeting a Hindu woman at a restaurant during Valentine’s week, triggering tension in the city.
The incident took place in the Madhavpuram area near the Brahmpuri police station limits. According to reports, Sufiyan, a gym trainer, had gone to a restaurant on Sharda Road with a woman friend. Eyewitnesses said some Bajrang Dal workers reached the spot after receiving information that a Muslim man was sitting with a Hindu woman.
When questioned, the youth allegedly introduced himself as Rahul. Later, when his identity as Sufiyan became known, an argument broke out inside the restaurant. Bajrang Dal workers accused him of attempting “love jihad” by using a Hindu name to befriend the woman. The situation escalated, and he was taken outside the restaurant, where he was allegedly beaten.
Police from Brahmpuri station reached the spot after receiving information about the disturbance. The injured trainer was taken into custody and shifted to the hospital for treatment. His medical condition has not been officially detailed.
The woman was also brought to the police station for questioning. Police informed her family and recorded statements. Officials said her version of events would be crucial in determining whether there was any element of coercion or deception.
Bajrang Dal functionaries submitted a complaint alleging that the trainer had trapped the woman by concealing his real name and religion. Based on the complaint, the police registered a case under relevant sections related to cheating and harassment. At the same time, police said they are also examining the assault on the trainer.
This story was originally published in theobserverpost.com. Read the full story here.