An interfaith marriage between Hindu woman Akanksha Gautam and Muslim man Shahbaz Rana has escalated into a social and political controversy in Meerut district of Uttarpradesh. The issue has gone beyond the wedding itself, with local Hindu organizations announcing a mahapanchayat in protest.

The dispute surfaced ahead of the wedding scheduled on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Paradise Mandap in the Ganganagar police station area. Several organizations had already raised objections, labeling the marriage a case of “love jihad.”

Akanksha’s uncle, Premchand Gautam, lodged a complaint with the local police, alleging that Shahbaz had allegedly misled Akanksha into marrying him. Following the complaint, the administration postponed the wedding and deployed police forces to maintain law and order. A case was also registered against Shahbaz under the anti-conversion law.

However, Akanksha clarified that she was marrying her fiancé of her own free will. She stated that their relationship has lasted nearly six years and that there is no issue of religious conversion involved. She also claimed that her uncle was exaggerating the matter due to personal property disputes.

Meanwhile, some Hindu organizations have announced that a mahapanchayat will be held at Paradise Mandap instead of the wedding, addressing issues related to Sanatan Dharma, cultural awareness, and anti-conversion activism. The administration has strengthened security and is monitoring all activities closely.

The controversy is not limited to Meerut; it has sparked wider social and political discussions across Uttar Pradesh regarding interfaith marriages, personal freedom, social pressures, and the boundaries of law.