BJP Leader Demands Central Probe Into Andhra 'Love Jihad' Allegations

A prominent BJP member has demanded that central agencies launch an investigation into alleged 'love jihad' cases in Kakinada, criticizing what he describes as inaction by state officials.

Somu Veerraju raised concerns about the lack of response from the state's Home Minister and top police officials, stating that neither Home Minister V. Anitha nor Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta took substantive action on the matter until late August.

The 'love jihad' term, widely used in certain political circles to describe alleged forced religious conversions through relationships, remains a contentious issue in several Indian states. The Andhra Pradesh government has previously defended its position on such matters, though specific details of the Kakinada case remain disputed between different groups.

Veerraju's intervention reflects the BJP's focus on religious conversion issues, a theme the party has emphasized in several states. The demand for central agency involvement suggests escalating political pressure around the case.

Neither state officials nor other stakeholders have publicly detailed their findings or responses to the specific allegations raised by the BJP member.