HUBBALLI: Hubballi witnessed tension on Friday after an alleged ‘love jihad’ and harassment case triggered protests by Hindu activists. Members of Hindu organisations picketed the house of Sameer Mullah, alleging that he had sent a threatening message to a girl from the Hindu community. The protesters later handed him over to the Old Hubballi police station.
The situation escalated after the girl’s family alleged that Sameer’s relatives entered their house and issued death threats. This development added a new dimension to the case, with allegations emerging that Sameer had blackmailed the girl and possibly other women. Rajeshwari, the girl’s mother, said her daughter and Sameer’s sister were friends, through whom Sameer came into contact with her. “We never expected such behaviour,” she said, demanding strict action and justice.
The girl alleged that Sameer, who runs a gym called Muscle Factory in the city, gained her trust and later called her to his house under the pretext of meeting him. She claimed that after consuming water offered by him, she felt dizzy and lost consciousness. She further alleged that he later showed her a video and threatened her, leading to repeated abuse.
“I was scared and followed his commands. Now, his family members are threatening to kill me and my family. I am worried that other innocent girls may also be targeted,” she claimed.
Meanwhile, Sameer’s sister refuted the allegations, saying that the two had been in a relationship for four years. She alleged that the girl had been pressured by the activists to change her stance. “The allegations are false,” she said.
Hindu activists claimed this was not an isolated incident and alleged a pattern of Hindu girls being targeted. They also cited a message purportedly sent by Sameer as evidence of his intent.
Police Commissioner N. Shashi Kumar said he visited the spot and spoke to both families. “Statements will be recorded and action will be taken based on the complaints. The truth will emerge after a thorough probe,” he said. Police sources said that material, including photographs with different women and medical-related documents (pregnancy reports), had been recovered from Sameer’s mobile phone.