An interfaith couple from Uttarakhand, Mohammad Shanu and Akanksha Kandhari, are in fear for their lives after their marriage notice and personal details went viral on social media. The couple, who had earlier received police protection, is now facing increased threats from political and religious groups opposing their marriage.

What is the case?

Shanu and Akanksha, who met on social media in 2018 and began dating in 2022, decided to get married. The couple submitted their marriage notice at the Bazpur sub-divisional magistrate's court on January 7. However, after their marriage notice and other personal details were shared online, they became fearful for their safety. "Ever since our marriage notice went viral, it's been terrible for us. I fear for my life," Shanu told the Times of India.

Akanksha’s mother had initially opposed their relationship, but after a lot of persuasion, she agreed to their marriage. However, she reportedly put a condition that Akanksha must sever all ties with her daughter. Even so, the couple went ahead and married.

Political and religious pressure on the Couple

After their marriage, several political and religious groups, including the Bajrang Dal, began opposing the couple’s alliance. The situation became tense, and the couple sought police protection. In December 2023, they approached the Uttarakhand High Court for help. The court instructed the police to provide protection for six months and to assess the situation again after that period to decide further steps.

Akanksha’s mother, who had initially opposed the marriage, is now reportedly under pressure from political and religious groups to object to the alliance. This has added to the couple’s distress, making their future uncertain and full of fear.

Even with so much education and progress, our country still struggles to accept inter-caste and inter-religious marriages. People should have the freedom to choose their life partners, as it’s their personal choice. It’s unfortunate that society still limits love and independence based on caste and religion.

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