Tumkur: Tension gripped Tumkur after allegations surfaced against a local woman for her alleged links with Mehdi Foundation International (MFI), a controversial organisation with roots in Pakistan and London. Local Muslim leaders and religious bodies have filed a complaint against her, demanding immediate action, while the woman has denied any wrongdoing.
On Monday, hundreds of members of the Muslim community gathered outside the Tumkur Superintendent of Police’s office with a memorandum seeking investigation against a woman named Ishrat, a resident of Upparahalli in Tumkur. The complainants alleged that Ishrat, a follower of the MFI group, has been promoting her ideology locally through social media and videos, and accused her of attempting to influence others.
According to the petitioners, MFI was originally founded in England under the influence of Pakistani-born Gauhar Shahi and is widely regarded with suspicion by Indian authorities. The group, once known as “Deen Daram Anjum,” was banned in the past for alleged anti-national propaganda, and police across several states have arrested its members over the years. Local leaders argued that Ishrat’s association with such an organisation posed a potential threat and demanded strong legal action.
Members of the Markazji Majlis Mushawarat, an umbrella body of Muslim organizations in Tumkur, stated in their complaint that Ishrat’s activities were outside the principles of Islam. “We want to make it clear that this woman’s ideas do not represent our community. This organization is not part of our religious tradition, and it is dangerous,” they said.
Residents of Upparahalli alleged that Ishrat had been circulating videos and content of MFI through WhatsApp and social media. Some claimed that her actions were aimed at promoting divisive ideologies, although no evidence of conversion or radicalization has been formally established.
Responding to the accusations, Ishrat denied any link to anti-national activities. “I was born and brought up in Tumkur. I have not violated the rules of Islam, nor have I converted anyone. I only watch and follow MFI’s videos on YouTube and Instagram because I find them spiritually appealing,” she said.
She explained that she had recently recorded a video after being inspired by the teachings she followed online. “Someone shared my video on WhatsApp, and local people became angry. Around 25 people came to my house and threatened us, saying we would be removed from the Jamaat. I felt unsafe and filed a complaint at Jayanagar police station,” Ishrat said.
She reiterated that MFI’s headquarters is in London and not in Pakistan, distancing herself from the allegations of sedition. “I have no connection with Pakistan. I don’t know why they are targeting me like this,” she maintained.
Superintendent of Police Ashok Venkat confirmed that both sides had filed complaints and that the matter was under investigation. “We have received a petition from the Muslim Federation alleging anti-national activities linked to MFI. At the same time, Ishrat has also sought protection. We are verifying all the claims,” he said.
He added that intelligence agencies, including the Internal Security Division (ISD), have been alerted and the investigation will follow both state and central guidelines. “Appropriate legal action will be taken as per law,” the SP assured.
Authorities noted that MFI has been under the scanner for years. Several members of the organization have previously been arrested in India, and the group has often been accused of attempting to spread controversial doctrines under the guise of spirituality. While Ishrat insists she is only a follower online, officials said that even passive promotion of banned or suspicious groups requires scrutiny.
The incident has heightened tensions in Tumkur, with sharp differences between the woman and local community leaders. While Ishrat claims she is being targeted unfairly, religious leaders maintain their stance that her association with MFI, regardless of intent, is unacceptable and dangerous.
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