Tension in Hubballi after ‘love jihad’ allegation, assault and counter cases filed

Hubballi,  Tension gripped parts of Hubballi following protests by Hindu organisations over an alleged “love jihad” case, with a volatile situation reported under the Old Hubballi police station limits. The unrest began after serious allegations surfaced against a local युवक Sameer, accused of sexually assaulting a young woman he had befriended at a gym.

According to reports, Sameer, a resident of Vijayanagar in Hubballi, came in contact with the victim at a local gym. Their acquaintance reportedly grew into a close relationship. The victim has alleged that Sameer later invited her to his house, where he allegedly mixed an intoxicating substance in a drink and sexually assaulted her.

As the matter came to light, activists from Hindu organisations allegedly went to Sameer’s residence, assaulted him, and later handed him over to the police. This incident further escalated tensions in the area.

In a counter development, Sameer’s family members reportedly stormed the victim’s house in Vikasnagar, alleging that he had been abducted. During the confrontation, they are accused of assaulting several members of the girl’s family before fleeing the spot as police arrived.

The situation intensified as members of various organisations gathered outside the Old Hubballi police station, staging protests and demanding strict action against the accused. Protesters also alleged that gyms are increasingly being misused for such incidents and demanded closure of the facility where the two met.

Meanwhile, the victim released a video statement detailing the sequence of events. She stated that Sameer was introduced to her through his sister, who was her friend. Over time, they attended social gatherings together, including birthday and weekend parties, which led to increased familiarity.

The victim further alleged that on one occasion, Sameer took her to his house, where he gave her a drink laced with sedatives and sexually assaulted her. She also claimed that he recorded the act and later used the video to blackmail her, subjecting her to repeated sexual exploitation.

Sameer, who sustained injuries in the assault, has been admitted to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi and is undergoing treatment. His parents have denied all allegations, stating that the two were known to each other and that the situation has been misinterpreted.

Police have registered cases from both sides. While Sameer’s family has filed a complaint at Ashok Nagar police station alleging assault and abduction, a separate case has been registered at Vidyanagar police station based on the victim’s allegations of sexual assault and harassment.

Police officials said investigations are underway, and individuals from both sides are being questioned. The situation is currently under control, but authorities are closely monitoring developments.