KGMU case: VHP holds protest in Lucknow over alleged religious conversions

Lucknow: Members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) staged a protest in Hazratganj on Friday, alleging illegal religious conversion activities at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) and calling for swift and strict action against those involved.

The demonstration came a day after the arrest of KGMU intern Mohammad Adil in connection with an alleged rape and blackmail case involving a nursing student. VHP leaders and workers gathered in large numbers, raising slogans and accusing authorities of failing to check what they described as suspicious activities on the university campus.

The protesters urged the Special Task Force (STF), which is investigating the matter, to fast-track the probe and ensure strong action against anyone found guilty. Local VHP leader Vijay Pratap claimed the incidents indicated a well-planned attempt at religious conversion and demanded a thorough investigation.

Speaking to PTI Videos, Pratap said that the efforts of VHP and Bajrang Dal workers had helped bring the issue to light and alleged that more people were involved. He also called for the removal of certain KGMU officials and a comprehensive inquiry into the entire episode.

Police said Adil, a resident of Kaiserbagh, was arrested on Thursday and later sent to jail. According to the complaint, the woman, who stays in a paying guest accommodation in Aliganj, alleged that Adil befriended her, sexually assaulted her on the pretext of marriage and secretly recorded objectionable videos.

She further alleged that when she insisted on marriage, he refused and threatened to make the videos public on social media. An FIR was registered on December 29, and her statement was later recorded before a magistrate.

Officials said the allegations bear similarities to the broader KGMU sexual exploitation and alleged religious conversion case, though no direct link has been established so far. Police are examining whether Adil had any connection with Ramizuddin Naik, a junior resident doctor at KGMU who was expelled and is currently in jail on charges related to sexual exploitation and religious conversion.

A senior police officer said that custody of Naik would be sought as part of the ongoing probe into a suspected organised religious conversion network in the state capital. Further action will be taken if any links are established.

The case has added to the growing controversy surrounding KGMU following Naik’s arrest earlier this month. He was accused of sexually exploiting a woman doctor on the promise of marriage, forcing her to undergo an abortion, threatening her and pressuring her to change her religion.

Following an internal inquiry, including findings by the university’s Vishakha Committee, KGMU expelled Naik from the MD course after the charges were found to be prima facie true. The university’s vice chancellor later briefed chief minister Yogi Adityanath on the action taken. Police have also questioned a Muslim cleric from Pilibhit in connection with the case.

(with inputs from agencies)