Help daughters ‘trapped’ by men assuming fake identities, Gujarat Deputy CM tells women at temple event

In an indirect reference to ‘love jihad’, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi on Friday (March 6, 2026) urged women to help “trapped daughters” who fall prey to men with fake identities.

Speaking at a temple programme in Vadodara, Mr. Sanghavi said the BJP government in the State is moving ahead with strength to take strict 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 for converting them to Islam. There have also been cases of women becoming victims of men who assume fake identities to hide the inter-faith aspect of the relationship.

“If our daughters fall victim innocently, then you women must come forward like Rani Lakshmibai (legendary ruler of Jhansi known for her valour). Resolve to save the trapped daughter. If you stand with her instead of criticising her, no one will be able to think of harassing her,” the 41-year-old BJP leader said.

Highlighting the State government’s resolve to curb such incidents, the Deputy Chief Minister said police have been successful in rescuing several such women in many districts.

Later in the day, Mr. Sanghavi also participated in the District Planning Committee meeting held at the Vadodara collector’s office.

In a post on X, he 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.”