Shamli conversion row: FIR registered against 10 accused; Mahapanchayat called on June 12

Shamli Conversion Row: FIR Registered Against 10 Accused, Mahapanchayat on June 12

Shamli conversion row – Amid growing tensions in Shamli, a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against ten individuals, including seven family members and three clerics, for alleged forced religious conversion and intimidation. The incident has reignited debates over the Shamli conversion row, with the community demanding accountability for the alleged coercion of a local youth into Islam. The case traces back to a medical store owner, Devaraj Malik, who claims his son, Ayush Malik, was systematically pressured through a romantic relationship and property-related motives to convert. This development has prompted the Hindu Mahapanchayat, set for June 12, to unite against what is being called a campaign of cultural and religious subjugation.

Details of the Complaint

The FIR, filed on Saturday, alleges a coordinated effort by a group led by Chandni Qureshi from Kaziwada locality to manipulate Ayush Malik into embracing Islam. According to Malik, the accused created a fraudulent marriage certificate, known as a

Nikahnama

, four years ago to formalize the connection. The complaint highlights the use of psychological tactics, such as emotional appeals and economic incentives, to influence the family. Local authorities have noted that the accused were not only threatening Ayush but also pressuring other family members to comply with the conversion plan, escalating fears of a broader ideological campaign.

Accused Individuals and Evidence

The list of accused includes Chandni Qureshi, her sister Rahit Qureshi, Sumailla Qureshi, Rabia Qureshi, Aas Mohammad alias Aasu Qureshi, Huma Qureshi, and their father Islam Qureshi. Clerics Munawwar and two additional clerics are also named in the FIR, with claims of their active involvement in the alleged conspiracy. The case hinges on evidence of coercion, including video recordings, testimonies, and documents that allegedly prove the systematic nature of the conversion attempts. Police are currently examining these materials to determine the legal framework under which the case will proceed.

The family’s resistance to the conversion efforts reportedly led to threats of severe consequences, including harm to their lives and livelihoods. Devaraj Malik described the situation as a “religious kidnapping,” emphasizing how the accused exploited personal and financial vulnerabilities to achieve their goals. This has not only affected the Malik family but also raised concerns among local Hindus about the increasing influence of religious conversion campaigns in the area. Community leaders have warned that such practices could erode traditional values and deepen communal divides.

Police Response and Investigation

Authorities took swift action by summoning Chandni Qureshi and her father Islam Qureshi for questioning earlier that day. Superintendent Narendra Pratap Singh confirmed the FIR registration, stating that the investigation is in its early stages. While the specific legal sections cited in the FIR remain undisclosed, the police have assured that they are diligently searching for further evidence to strengthen the case. This includes gathering testimonies from witnesses and analyzing the Nikahnama document to establish its authenticity and the timeline of the alleged conversion.

The ongoing probe has also sparked discussions about the role of external actors in the affair. Malik alleged that outsiders were involved in orchestrating the pressure on his family, suggesting a broader network of influence. This claim adds another layer to the Shamli conversion row, as it implies that the issue extends beyond local actors and may involve regional or national groups. The police have yet to confirm or refute these allegations, but the investigation continues to build momentum as more details emerge.

Hindu Mahapanchayat and Community Mobilization

Swami Yashveer Maharaj of Baghra’s Yog Sadhana Ashram has taken a leading role in rallying the Hindu community against the alleged conversion efforts. In a video message released on Saturday, he condemned the administration for its perceived inaction, calling the case a “conversion jihad.” The scheduled Hindu Mahapanchayat in Qureshi locality on June 12 is expected to draw large crowds, with participants planning to gather at Shiv Murti at 11 am before marching to the accused’s locality. This event aims to showcase the strength of the Hindu community and assert their right to preserve religious identity without coercion.

The seer has encouraged farmers to bring tractors and Hindu traders to close their shops temporarily as a symbolic act of protest. Such measures are designed to amplify the community’s message and create a visible demonstration of solidarity. Officials have acknowledged the significance of the Mahapanchayat, noting that it will provide a platform for Hindus to voice their concerns. However, they have also emphasized the importance of evidence in the case, stating that the legal proceedings will be guided by facts rather than public sentiment.