Bandh in Gujarat's Panchmahal Over Tribal Woman's Marriage to Muslim Man; Police Confirm Couple's Marriage
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Vadodara , October 27 : Markets remained closed in parts of Ghoghamba taluka in Gujarat's Panchmahal district on Saturday following a bandh called by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal and other local groups over a tribal woman's decision to live with her Muslim husband.
The groups demanded that the woman be returned to her family and warned of further protests if their demand was not met. They also raised the possibility of a social boycott of those concerned. Police said the bandh remained peaceful, with additional security arrangements made to prevent any untoward incidents.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Navin Ahir told that the couple had been in a relationship for around two-and-a-half years and had legally married in July 2025. After both families reportedly refused to accept their relationship, the couple left their homes around 20–25 days ago.
The court directed the Panchmahal Superintendent of Police to provide them with protection.
On Friday, the couple appeared at Halol town police station and recorded their statements, reiterating that they wished to live together of their own free will.
After a Hindu woman ELOPED with a Muslim man, the local community stands SHOULDER-TO-SHOULDER with her grieving family.
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) October 26, 2026
Despite court protection and claims of non-conversion, the entire village SHUTS DOWN Ghoghamba market to BRING her BACK. pic.twitter.com/abTT4hewYL
The woman also told police that she had not converted her religion and continued to follow Hinduism, while her husband remained Muslim.
The woman's father, Takhtsinh Rathwa, alleged that his daughter had left for college on September 30 and was taken away after getting off a bus. He demanded that she be returned to the family.
Ahir said police had explained to the woman's family that she was an adult and legally entitled to decide whom she wished to live with. He added that both families were upset over the relationship, but efforts were being made to resolve the matter peacefully.
Representatives of the VHP and Janjati Suraksha Manch maintained that the woman should be handed back to her family. They warned that protests could continue if their demand was not fulfilled.
Police have maintained security in the area to prevent any escalation. The situation remained peaceful during the bandh, while efforts continued to address the dispute.