An interfaith couple from Jharkhand, Mohammad Galib and Asha Verma, sought refuge and married in Kerala after fleeing their village in fear for their lives, as the woman's family and community accused the man of 'love jihad' and filed a case against him.
The couple, hailing from Chitarpur in Ramgarh, arrived in Kayamkulam, Alappuzha, earlier this month after receiving death threats, which led them to seek legal assistance and police protection, The Hindu reported.
According to their counsel, the couple first married in accordance with Islamic customs at a masjid in Kayamkulam on February 11, followed by a Hindu wedding ceremony at a temple on February 16. Their relationship, which had lasted for over a decade, faced strong opposition from Asha’s family and members of her community, with accusations of ‘love jihad’.
Reports indicate that Asha’s family had arranged her marriage to a much older man, prompting Mohammad to return from West Asia, where he was employed.
Following their arrival in Kerala, Jharkhand police registered a case and recorded their statements on February 14. Later, another case was reportedly filed against Mohammad, accusing him of kidnapping Asha and forcibly taking her away.
Despite these allegations, Asha refused to return with her relatives when they reached Kayamkulam earlier this month, asserting that she had willingly accompanied Mohammad. The couple, fearing for their safety, decided to seek legal protection and took steps to formally register their marriage.
Their legal representatives have filed a writ petition in the Kerala High Court requesting police protection, citing concerns that Asha could become a victim of an “honour killing” due to the hostility from her family and community.
Authorities in Kayamkulam have assured that the couple will be provided security if requested. The couple’s decision to seek refuge in Kerala was reportedly influenced by a friend from Kayamkulam, who had previously worked with Mohammad in West Asia and advised them on relocating for safety.