Karnataka Woman Alleges Forced Religious Conversion After Marriage; Files Complaint Against Husband

Bengaluru: A Hindu woman in Karnataka has levelled serious allegations against her Muslim husband, accusing him of forcing her to convert her religion after marriage, subjecting her to physical abuse, and later marrying another woman. The complainant has approached the police, seeking legal action and protection.

According to the complaint, the woman, originally named Rita and now known as Sadia Tabassum, alleged that she was deceived into marriage by her husband, Parvez, a resident of DJ Halli in Bengaluru. She claimed that Parvez assured her before marriage that she would not be forced to change her religion and would be free to continue practising Hindu customs.

Relationship Began During College Years
The woman stated that she met Parvez in 2015 while studying at a private college in Bengaluru. At the time, she was pursuing her pre-university course, while Parvez was in a senior class. According to her, Parvez gradually developed a friendship with her, later proposing marriage.

She alleged that although she initially resisted the relationship due to religious differences, Parvez convinced her and her family that marriage would not involve any pressure to convert. The couple eventually got married on December 15, 2019, following Hindu rituals.

Allegations of Forced Conversion
In her complaint, the woman alleged that after marriage, Parvez began pressuring her to embrace Islam. She claimed that when she refused, she was threatened with divorce, assaulted, confined to the house, and harassed. She further alleged that she was eventually forced to convert to Islam, made to recite religious verses, and her name was changed to Sadia Tabassum. Following the conversion, a nikah ceremony was conducted.

Second Marriage Allegation
The complainant also alleged that after her conversion, Parvez married another woman, leaving her and their two children. She claimed that when she objected, Parvez justified his actions by citing religious provisions permitting multiple marriages.

She further alleged that despite filing a complaint at DJ Halli Police Station, no immediate action was taken. Subsequently, she submitted a memorandum to the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner, demanding legal action and security.

Police Response
Police sources confirmed that a complaint has been received and said the matter is under investigation. Further action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.