In Shamli, Uttar Pradesh, a case of religious conversion has sparked controversy after 31-year-old Ayush Malik, now known as Mohammad Ali, faced backlash following the viral circulation of his photos offering Eid prayers. The images alerted Hindu right-wing groups, prompting his father, Devraj Malik, to file a First Information Report (FIR) alleging forceful conversion. This led to the arrest of Chandni Qureshi and her father.
Devraj Malik, a prominent businessman and president of the Shamli Medicine Traders Association, who owns two large medical stores, stated, "I knew about my son's affair and his conversion and had been dealing with it privately, trying to convince him to return. He's my only son, but the pictures alerted the Hindu right-wing groups, which led to the involvement of police."
Ayush refutes the charges and told the Times of India, "I had inclination towards Islam since childhood, and by 2012 my faith strengthened. It was around four years ago I converted to Islam and around that period I married Chandni. I kept the development under covers because of the prevailing environment but revealed 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."
Police Investigation
Superintendent of Police NP Singh said, "According to the preliminary investigation, Ayush came in contact with Chandni through her brother, 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 substantial properties. Acting on a complaint filed by his father Devraj Malik, police registered a case at Shamli Kotwali police station against Chandni Qureshi and eight others, including unidentified persons."
The FIR has been lodged under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including 318(4) (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), 336(3) (forgery for the purpose of cheating), 338 (forgery of valuable security, will, etc.), 61(2) (criminal conspiracy), 351(3) (statements conducing to public mischief), and 308(5) (attempt to commit culpable homicide), along with provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021.
Details of the Relationship
According to police sources, Chandni's brother Aas Mohammad worked at Ayush's medicine outlet. Chandni, who earlier worked as a physiotherapist, came in contact with Ayush and later started working as his gym trainer. Their relationship grew and culminated into a nikah four years ago at a mosque in Delhi with the consent of her family.
SP Singh added that a Pakistan connection has also emerged in the case. "During questioning, Ayush has accepted he was under the influence of Pakistan-based Islamic preacher Israr Ahmed and was deeply influenced by his teachings."
Father's Concerns
Ayush's father Devraj Malik told TOI, "I first suspected something was amiss about four months ago when Ayush began showing business losses and grew a long beard. Initially, Ayush denied any change but later admitted to embracing Islam. Our family had been trying to counsel him, but then the pictures went viral."
Devraj also alleged in the FIR that pressure was being exerted on other family members to convert. He has three daughters besides Ayush.
Hindu Outfits React
The matter drew the attention of Hindu outfits after godman Yashveer Maharaj of Baghra Ashram released a video demanding strict police action against those involved and warning of a panchayat. "Ayush, a Hindu Jat, was converted with an aim to grab his huge property," he said. Several other Hindu organisations also voiced concern and called for a thorough investigation.
Police said the probe was continuing to arrest the remaining accused and ascertain all facts.
