Shamli, June 8: Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested two individuals in Shamli district in connection with an alleged forced religious conversion case, while 16 other people were detained in separate operations linked to various criminal offences, officials said on Sunday. The action forms part of an ongoing crackdown against unlawful activities across the district.
According to police, the conversion case revolves around allegations that a 30-year-old businessman’s son was pressured to convert his religion under the pretext of marriage. Investigators arrested a woman gym trainer and her father after a complaint was lodged by the victim’s family. A total of nine people have been named in the case, and authorities are probing the role of each accused.
Police said the complainants alleged that the victim was drawn into a relationship and subsequently pressured to embrace another faith as part of a planned scheme. Based on the allegations, a case has been registered under relevant provisions of the law, including sections of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Religious Conversion Act.
Senior police officials stated that evidence is being collected and statements of the accused and witnesses are being recorded. Investigators are also examining digital communications, financial transactions, and other documents that may help establish the sequence of events.
Apart from the conversion case, Shamli Police conducted a district-wide enforcement drive and arrested 16 individuals in separate cases involving various offences. These included actions against wanted criminals, individuals accused of disturbing public order, and those allegedly involved in unlawful activities. Police said the operation was aimed at maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety.
Officials reiterated that strict action would be taken against anyone found violating the law, regardless of background or affiliation. They also urged residents not to spread unverified information on social media and to cooperate with investigators while the inquiry continues.
The arrests have drawn significant public attention in the region, with local authorities closely monitoring the situation to prevent any communal tension. Security arrangements have been strengthened as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, police have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that further action will depend on the evidence collected during the probe.
Authorities have appealed for calm and stated that all aspects of the case will be examined impartially in accordance with the law. More arrests could follow if additional evidence emerges during the investigation.
