Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A youth was stabbed and later died in hospital after a scuffle over a couple sitting together at Ambedkar Park under Govindpura police station. While initial claims linked the clash to alleged ‘love jehad’, police investigation suggests it was a drunken brawl with no communal angle.
The incident occurred on Thursday evening when Faizan Khan, a resident of Piplani, was at the park with a girl of another faith. Three other youths—Shyam More, Ajay and Rahul—arrived at the spot and reportedly objected to Faizan being with the girl. An argument followed, and the situation turned violent.
In the clash, Faizan allegedly pulled out a knife attached to his key ring and stabbed Shyam and Ajay. All parties involved were reportedly intoxicated. Shyam and Ajay were rushed to AIIMS Bhopal. Shyam succumbed to his injuries on Saturday morning, while Ajay is recovering.
ACP Govindpura Aditi Saxena said that the altercation seemed to have started due to some provocation during the encounter in the park. Faizan, who works in private jobs, and tvictims, who were labourers under a BHEL contractor, were not previously known to each other.
Faizan was arrested soon after the incident and is being questioned. Police have confirmed that he has no prior criminal record.
Police rule out ‘love jehad’ link
ACP Aditi Saxena said that there is no communal or romantic angle to the incident. Families of Faizan and the girl said they were former neighbours and knew each other well. The girl’s family confirmed she tied ‘rakhi’ to Faizan and that there was nothing unusual in their relationship. Police continue to investigate further.
