Kannada Sene activist and convener, Pradeep Sarkar, has alleged that certain gyms in Davangere are being used to lure Hindu women into religious conversion, terming it a 'jihad' and demanding a suo motu police case. The allegation was made on 12 July 2026, sparking debate in the city.
Allegations of religious conversion at gyms
Sarkar claimed that a gym owner in Davangere befriended Hindu women under the pretext of providing fitness training and later attempted to convert them to Islam. He stated that such activities are part of a larger conspiracy to undermine Hindu society. Sarkar urged the police to register a case without waiting for a formal complaint, citing the need for immediate action.
Demand for police action
The Kannada Sene leader submitted a memorandum to the Davangere police commissioner, demanding an investigation into the matter. He warned that if the police did not act, the Sene would launch protests. The police have not yet commented on the demand. Sarkar also alleged that similar incidents have occurred in other parts of Karnataka, calling for a statewide crackdown.
Context and reactions
The term 'jihad' has been used by some right-wing groups to describe alleged efforts to convert Hindus through marriage or other means. Critics argue that such claims are often baseless and stoke communal tension. Local residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some supporting the demand for a probe and others dismissing it as a political stunt. The Davangere police have said they are examining the memorandum and will take appropriate action based on evidence.
