A gym trainer, aged 23, reportedly faced an assault on Friday after a confrontation related to his involvement with a girl in Hubballi, Karnataka. The police are investigating claims of rape and blackmail against him. The woman, aged 20, released a video statement accusing the trainer, Sameer Mulla, of taking her to his residence, giving her a drink, and sexually assaulting her. She further stated that he filmed the incident and used it to blackmail her. Authorities have initiated an inquiry into both sides’ allegations.
The incident occurred within the Old Hubballi police station’s jurisdiction. City Police Commissioner N Shashikumar assured a thorough investigation into the complaints received. He confirmed the filing of a complaint and the registration of an FIR, mentioning additional incidents related to the case being addressed in respective police stations. The girl’s parents alleged harassment and blackmail using their daughter’s photos and videos.
Clarifying the situation, Shashikumar mentioned a personal dispute between two families triggered the incident, emphasizing it was unrelated to ‘love jihad’. He detailed the event took place in the morning hours when a group confronted the youth at his residence. Subsequently, the youth was taken away and later brought to a police station for resolution.
Responding to Hindutva groups’ accusations of ‘love jihad’, the Commissioner reiterated the incident as a criminal case, promising a fair investigation. Sameer’s sister, Taiseem Mulla, claimed her brother was forcibly taken and attacked by a group, urging strict action against the perpetrators and filing a police complaint. The family searched for Sameer, finding him injured and hospitalized hours later.
Taiseem mentioned a three-year relationship between Sameer and the woman, highlighting the circulation of their photos and videos before the incident. Dismissing ‘love jihad’ allegations, she emphasized the family’s respect for all religions and pursuit of justice. The woman’s mother accused Sameer of hypnotizing and harassing her daughter, denying any existing relationship with him. She alleged ongoing harassment by Sameer and his family in recent days.
The woman’s father claimed a group, including Sameer’s family members, invaded their home with weapons, threatening violence and arson. He expressed fear and the family’s quest for justice amidst false accusations. Sameer, receiving medical treatment, claimed he was coerced into admitting involvement in ‘love jihad’ and brutally assaulted by the group.
The situation remains under investigation, with both sides presenting their accounts for review.