Hubballi: A 23-year-old gym trainer was allegedly assaulted in Karnataka’s Hubballi following a confrontation linked to a personal relationship, even as police began probing serious counter-allegations of rape and blackmail against him.

The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of the Old Hubballi police station on Friday morning, triggering multiple complaints from both sides and prompting a wider investigation by the police.According to police, the youth, identified as Sameer Mulla, was allegedly taken away by a group after a confrontation between two families. The altercation reportedly took place between 8 am and 9 am and stemmed from a dispute over his relationship with a 20-year-old woman.

Sameer later alleged that he was assaulted by the group. “They beat me mercilessly. They kept hitting me and took me away. They forced me to falsely say that I was involved in ‘love jihad’. I refused, and they assaulted me brutally,” he claimed while undergoing treatment at a hospital.

Police said he has sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical care.

Woman alleges rape and blackmail

In a video statement, the woman accused Sameer of rape and blackmail. She alleged that he took her to his house, gave her a drink, and sexually assaulted her.

She further claimed that he recorded a video of the act without her knowledge and later used it to threaten and blackmail her.

Her parents also supported the allegations, stating that their daughter was harassed and that photos and videos were misused. They additionally alleged that a group, including members linked to Sameer, attempted to attack their house with weapons.

Cross-complaints and multiple cases

Hubballi City Police Commissioner N Shashikumar confirmed that an FIR is being registered and a detailed probe is underway.

He stated that the case is being treated as a criminal matter arising out of a personal dispute and is not linked to claims of “love jihad”, as alleged by some groups.

“A complaint has been lodged, and we are registering an FIR. The case will be investigated accordingly. Two to three related incidents have also come to light, and cases are being taken up in respective police stations,” he said.

Police added that separate complaints from both families are being examined, including allegations of assault, intimidation and attempted violence.

Family claims and counter-allegations

Sameer’s family alleged that he was forcibly taken away and assaulted, and demanded strict action against those involved. His sister claimed that the family searched for him for nearly two hours before he was located and admitted to hospital.

They also stated that Sameer and the woman had been in a relationship for about three years, and alleged that private photos and videos were circulated before the incident.

On the other hand, the woman’s family denied any relationship and alleged that Sameer had been harassing her for several days. They also claimed that a group attempted to forcibly enter their house and issued threats.

Investigation underway

Police are currently verifying all claims, including allegations of rape, blackmail, assault and attempted violence. Officials said evidence, including digital material and witness statements, will be examined as part of the investigation.

Conclusion

The Hubballi incident highlights a complex case involving serious allegations from both sides, including assault and sexual offences. With multiple complaints filed, the police have initiated a detailed investigation to establish facts and determine accountability.