A 30-year-old pharmaceutical trader's conversion to Islam and subsequent marriage to a Muslim woman has stirred controversy in Uttar Pradesh's Shamli district. The incident came to light after his photographs offering prayers on Eid were widely circulated, drawing the attention of Hindu right-wing groups and prompting a case under the stringent anti-conversion law. The trader's wife and her father have been arrested.
Details of the Case
Ayush Malik, who now goes by Mohammad Ali after embracing Islam, asserted that he converted willingly and will fight for his wife. 'I had an inclination towards Islam since childhood, and by 2012 my faith strengthened. About four years ago, I converted, and around that period I married Chandni. I kept it under wraps due to the prevailing environment and disclosed it to my parents in February. I am a major, and so is my wife. Legally, we have full rights to do what we have done. I will fight for her,' Ayush told TOI.
Superintendent of Police (Shamli) NP Singh stated that preliminary investigation indicates Ayush came into contact with Chandni Qureshi through her brother, Aas Mohammad, who worked at a medical store owned by the Malik family. Ayush's family has alleged that he was trapped and converted with the intention of grabbing the family's properties. A case was registered at Shamli Kotwali against Chandni, 30, and eight others, including unidentified persons.
Family's Stance
Devraj Malik, a prominent businessman and president of the Shamli Medicine Traders' Association, said, 'I knew about my son's affair and his conversion and was dealing with it privately, trying to convince him to return. But the photographs alerted right-wing groups, which led to the involvement of police.'
Police Investigation
Singh claimed that the police have also found a Pakistan connection. 'Ayush accepted, while questioning, that he was under the influence of Pakistan-based preacher late Israr Ahmed and was deeply influenced by his teachings,' the officer said. Chandni, who earlier worked as a physiotherapist, later started working as Ayush's gym trainer, police added. Their relationship grew and culminated in a 'nikah' at a mosque in Delhi with her family's consent.
Legal Action
Following a police complaint, an FIR was registered under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including cheating, forgery, criminal conspiracy, public mischief, and attempt to commit culpable homicide, along with provisions of the stringent UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021.
