HUBBALLI: Allegations related to the so-called “Love Jihad” once again surfaced in North Karnataka as several women shared their experiences at a press conference held in Hubballi on March 5. The programme was organised under the leadership of Pramod Muthalik, founder of the Sri Ram Sene, where participants alleged that young women were being targeted and emotionally manipulated in the name of love.
The issue has gained renewed attention following the release of a controversial film based on alleged “Love Jihad” incidents in Kerala. The film, released in two parts, claims to depict incidents of forced religious conversion through romantic relationships. Activists at the Hubballi event argued that similar incidents were occurring across the country, including in Karnataka.
Women narrate their experiences
At the press conference, several women who described themselves as victims narrated their personal experiences. Speaking emotionally, some of them claimed that they had been lured into relationships by men from other communities who allegedly concealed their real identities.
One of the women said the relationship initially appeared genuine but later turned into a distressing experience. “They used sweet words and promised that there would be no pressure to change religion or follow any customs like wearing a burqa. They said we would live happily like a queen after marriage,” she alleged.
According to her, the promises later proved false, and she managed to escape from the relationship after realising the situation. Several other women present at the event shared similar accounts, stating that they had faced emotional pressure and manipulation.
Neha Hiremath’s father raises concerns
The press conference was also attended by Niranjan Hiremath, father of Neha Hiremath, a college student who was murdered in Hubballi in 2024. The case had triggered widespread protests across the state.
Hiremath, also a corporator of the Hubli Dharwad Municipal Corporation and a Congress leader, alleged that there were attempts to shield the accused in his daughter’s case. “When my daughter was murdered, several political leaders visited us and assured us that justice would be delivered within 100 days. But even after nearly two years, justice is yet to be served,” he said.
He further alleged that the accused was receiving special treatment in prison and demanded that the investigation be handed over to central agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation or the National Investigation Agency for a fair probe.
Demand for stricter legislation
Speaking at the event, Muthalik claimed that incidents involving missing girls and young women were increasing in several parts of the country. He alleged that some of these cases were linked to organised attempts to lure women through relationships.
“Many girls and even minors are reported missing every year, and several of them are never traced. We suspect that such cases may be linked to Love Jihad networks,” he said while urging the government to introduce stringent legislation to curb such incidents.
Muthalik further alleged that some individuals hide their real identity and use Hindu names while approaching women. He claimed that the issue should be investigated thoroughly and that strict laws were required to prevent exploitation.
Hundreds of cases
The “Love Jihad” narrative has remained a highly debated topic in India. Hindu leaders and the majority allege that it involves organised attempts to convert women through romantic relationships,
Hindu leaders pointed out that hundreds of muslim youths are marrying Hindu girls by hiding their original identity, trapping girls. The activists insist that complaints raised by women must be investigated impartially to determine whether criminal elements are involved.
Many cases were reported in North Karnataka in recent times where Hindu girls went missing and were found in a Muslim youth’s house after months. Hundreds of girls are being cheated for money and sex, and to increase their community numbers ‘’ said a HJV leader.
