India: Ajfarul Haq Arrested Over Alleged Love-Trap and Forced Conversion Network Targeting Hindu Women

Image: Jihad Watch

On February 3, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Police arrested Ajfarul Haq, also known as Prince, a Mumbai-based Islamic preacher reportedly linked to the political party All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), in connection with an alleged large-scale “love-trap” and forced religious conversion racket that was operating from Basti district in Uttar Pradesh. Haq was apprehended in Bandra after remaining absconding for several weeks following the registration of a serious criminal case against him and several associates. His arrest came after sustained efforts by investigators who were tracking his movements across states.

The case emerged from a complaint lodged by a young Hindu woman from the Kalwari area of Basti, who accused Haq of concealing his religious identity to initiate a relationship with her. According to her statement, the accused allegedly posed as a Hindu, adopted religious symbols to appear convincing, and promised marriage and employment opportunities to gain her trust. She further alleged that beginning in early 2022 he sexually exploited her under false pretences and subsequently began pressuring her to convert to Islam. When she confronted him, Haq and members of his family allegedly assaulted and threatened her and her relatives in an attempt to silence her and prevent her from approaching law-enforcement authorities.

Based on the complaint, a First Information Report (FIR) was registered at Kotwali police station against Haq and multiple accused persons under charges including gang rape, cheating, criminal intimidation, and provisions related to unlawful religious conversion under the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021. Media reports citing police sources have suggested that investigators suspect Haq to be part of a wider organized network that allegedly targeted Hindu women by hiding religious identities, developing romantic relationships, recording private moments, and then using those recordings to blackmail victims into religious conversion. Some reports have also claimed that victims were subjected to sexual assault and, in certain cases, pushed toward prostitution, with allegations that the number of women targeted could be as high as 300. However, authorities have clarified that these figures are still being verified and that digital evidence, including mobile phones and social media accounts, is being examined to determine the actual scale of the alleged operation. Investigators are also exploring financial transactions and possible external links that could indicate a more structured network.

Ajfarul Haq is additionally suspected of having connections with individuals or organizations abroad that are currently under scrutiny, making this angle a key component of the investigation. Police are examining whether the case could involve a broader religious conversion syndicate or even potential terror-financing links, though no final conclusions have yet been announced. According to police records, Haq has previously been booked in more than 20 criminal cases involving serious offences such as robbery, extortion, and fraud, in addition to the present allegations. His reported association with AIMIM, a Hyderabad-based political party led by Member of Parliament Asaduddin Owaisi, has drawn additional public and political attention to the case.

Founded in 1927, AIMIM positions itself as a political platform advocating for Muslim rights and representation in India. The party, however, has frequently been involved in controversies over statements made by some of its leaders. One widely discussed incident involved senior leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, who in 2013 delivered a speech containing a controversial “15 minutes” remark that drew nationwide criticism and legal scrutiny, with opponents accusing the party of promoting divisive rhetoric. The controversy continues to resurface in political debates and discussions around communal polarization.

As of now, Haq remains in police custody and is being interrogated by Uttar Pradesh authorities. Officials have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, that evidence is still being analyzed, and that all allegations will ultimately be examined through the judicial process. Given the seriousness of the accusations and the political sensitivities surrounding the case, it is expected to remain under close scrutiny in the coming weeks.

The term “love jihad” is often used in India to describe allegations that some cases of interfaith relationships involve deception, coercion, or pressure aimed at religious conversion. Critics, including several activists, commentators, and political groups, argue that the term is misleading and communalizes consensual interfaith relationships, while supporters claim that certain criminal cases involving coercion and fraud highlight the need for legal vigilance. As investigations continue, authorities have stressed the importance of relying on verified evidence and due legal process to determine the facts in this particular case.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)