Pune Model Reconverts to Hinduism After Alleging Harassment in Marriage
A model from Pimpri-Chinchwad in Pune district has publicly reconverted to Hinduism, citing years of alleged harassment during her marriage to a Muslim businessman. The woman, identified as Sayali Surve, married a resident of Mira-Bhayandar in 2017 despite family opposition and converted to Islam after the wedding, changing her name accordingly.
Allegations of Harassment and 'Love Jihad'
Sayali Surve claims the marriage quickly became troubled, with both mental and physical harassment. She alleges she was pressured to abandon her Hindu religious practices and faced opposition whenever she tried to follow Hindu customs at home. "Within a few days of the wedding, physical assault began," she told media, adding that she endured the situation for several years primarily for the sake of her children.
Surve now describes the marriage as a case of 'love jihad,' stating, "Even though I was not directly forced to marry, I was influenced in the name of love. Under that influence, I agreed to the marriage of my own will. But now I feel it was a case of 'love jihad'."
Reconversion and Family Impact
Eventually, Surve decided to correct what she called her "mistake" and reconverted to Hinduism. She has reportedly brought her four children back to the Hindu faith as well. In a contrasting note, she mentioned that one other daughter-in-law in the family fully accepted Islam and continues to live with the family, while another daughter-in-law allegedly faced harassment but had the support of her husband.
Legal Action and Security Concerns
The model has filed a police complaint regarding the alleged harassment she endured over the past ten years and has requested security for herself. "Now I am not afraid of anything. I am standing strong for my children," she asserted, highlighting her resolve to move forward.
This case brings attention to issues of religious conversion, marital harassment, and the controversial concept of 'love jihad' in India, sparking discussions on personal freedom and safety in interfaith relationships.
