Vadodara, March 6 Without using the term "love jihad," Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi urged women to help "trapped daughters" who fall victim to men with false identities.
Speaking at the 'Kalash Yatra' of Rameshwar Mahadev Temple here, Sanghavi said the BJP government in the state is taking strong action against criminals involved in such cases.
"Love jihad" is a term often used by right-wing activists to allege a conspiracy by Muslim men to lure women of other religions into relationships and marriage in order to convert them to Islam. There have also been cases of women becoming victims of men who assume false identities to hide the inter-faith aspect of the relationship.
"If our daughters fall victim innocently, then you women must come forward like Laxmibai (the legendary ruler of Jhansi known for her bravery). Resolve to save the trapped daughter. If you stand with her instead of criticizing her, no one will be able to harass her," Sanghavi said.
Highlighting the state government's resolve to curb such incidents, the Deputy CM said that police have been successful in rescuing several such women in many districts.
On the occasion, the consecration ceremony (Pran Pratishtha Mahotsav) of the idols of Bhagwan Khatu Shyam, Sanwariya Sethji and Bharat Mata was held according to Vedic rituals.
Later in the day, Sanghavi also participated in the District Planning Committee meeting held at the Vadodara collector's office.
In a post on X, Sanghavi said, "During the meeting, approval was given to the district's planning for the current year. I also discussed future development plans with the concerned officials and provided necessary suggestions to ensure that the citizens of Vadodara district receive maximum facilities and benefits."