Gripped by fear, an interfaith couple from Surat has asked the police for protection after receiving continuous threats online. The threats reportedly began after their names and photos from a mass wedding ceremony went viral. They have stopped going to work fearing the worst.
According to reports, they submitted an application at the Mahila police station in Surat. They requested protection against any “untoward incident.” A police officer confirmed that action is being taken. The officer added that the Surat cybercrime police would help track those posting the threatening messages.
The 29-year-old man said they are receiving threatening messages and comments every day. He said their lives are in danger and anything could happen at any time. He added they have no one to support them and that their only hope is the police.
Among other details, it emerged that had dreamed of getting married on March 14, settling down, and starting a family. Instead, they are now worried about their safety and their parents’ safety.
The 25-year-old woman said they have decided to postpone the wedding because the situation has worsened.
She told a section of the media they had approached the Yashvi Foundation Charitable Trust for the mass marriage. After their videos went viral, the NGO cancelled their form, citing a proposed amendment to the marriage registration law. She said they plan to leave the city for a few days until things calm down. Both have taken leave from work and informed their families.
The couple worked at a real estate firm in Surat for five years. They had permission from their parents to marry. Both families are of modest means. They learned about the Yashvi Foundation through social media. The NGO has been organising mass weddings since 2024.
Pre-wedding rituals for 101 couples began on February 25. Bridal trousseau was given to the brides. A mehndi ceremony was held on February 26. The interfaith couple attended both events. Soon after photos and videos spread online, they began receiving threats.
On February 27, the Yashvi Foundation posted a letter on social media. It stated that the interfaith couple would not be part of the March 14 mass wedding. The NGO said it respects a proposed amendment in the marriage registration law that requires parental consent. It said the law had not been properly followed and therefore cancelled the couple’s marriage form.
On the same day, Aslam Cyclewala, Surat convener of South Gujarat Muslim Samaj, submitted a memorandum to the Surat District Collector and the Police Commissioner. He demanded that the wedding be stopped. He called it a violation of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act.
He said an interfaith marriage performed as per Hindu rituals would harm the city’s social fabric and peaceful atmosphere. He also demanded strict legal action against the Yashvi Foundation under the Gujarat Freedom of Religion (Amendment) Act, 2021.
Also Read: Gujarat’s Parental Consent Mandate Puts Individual Rights In The Dock https://www.vibesofindia.com/gujarats-parental-consent-mandate-puts-individual-rights-in-the-dock/
