Shiv Sena forms ‘love trishul’ to counter ‘love jihad’

BAREILLY: UP president of Shiv Sena Anil Singh has said that his party would form a ' love trishul', a gang of people meant to act and intervene early each time a case of ' love jihad' is reported. Anil Singh said the 'love trishul' coming up in the city would be a first, and the force would then spread across the state, so that young Hindu women at risk of conversion after being trapped in relationships are saved.

The term 'love jihad' gained currency in about 2009, when cases of forcible conversion of women were reported from Kerala and Karnataka. Ever since, there have been reports of such alleged cases of forced conversion of women in other states too. The Shiv Sena's move comes after the case of national-level shooter Tara Sahdev was reported from Jharkhand.

Talking to TOI, Anil Singh said, "Islamic organizations are known for promoting their religion, and now pose a new challenge to Hinduism. 'Love trishul' will be the 'Brahmastra' against all 'anti-Hindu' activities, and will safeguard youth from the dangers posed by Islamic organizations."

Pankaj Pathak, district president of the Shiv Sena, said, "We are aiming to promote awareness among youth of all communities, as the main aim of Islamic organizations is to promote their own religion by converting others."

Pathak said, "We will ask school and college administrations to issue identity cards to parents and guardians, so they can take their wards back home. This is just a beginning, and we will take all possible steps to safe guard Hindutva."