Bareilly: A birthday celebration at a café in Bareilly was disrupted after members of the Bajrang Dal allegedly barged into the venue, accusing two Muslim attendees of “love jihad”, an allegation that was later refuted by the police. Despite finding no evidence of wrongdoing, the police booked two Muslim boys and a café staffer under sections related to breach of peace, citing concerns over public order.
According to the police, the incident took place when a nursing student invited her classmates, six girls and four boys, for a small birthday celebration at a local café. Among the invitees were two Muslim students, while the rest were Hindus. Minutes after the gathering began, members of the Bajrang Dal allegedly entered the café, objected to the presence of Muslim boys and accused them of attempting “love jihad”.
Eyewitnesses and the girl hosting the party stated that the allegations were unfounded. She later said that her friends were targeted without provocation and that one of the Muslim boys was allegedly assaulted. The girl herself was also reportedly manhandled when she tried to intervene. Videos circulated on social media show police restraining the girl as she resists being taken away, prompting criticism over the handling of the situation. The woman alleged that a female police officer misbehaved with her during the intervention.
Police officials clarified that their inquiry found no substance in the love jihad claims. However, they stated that due to the commotion and rising tensions at the café, two Muslim students and a café staffer were booked for breach of peace to prevent further disturbance.
