A disturbing incident unfolded in Karnataka's Hubballi, where a woman's attempt to end her friendship with a man named Aftab took a violent turn. Following the tragic murder of Neha Hiremath, daughter of a Congress councilor, the woman grew apprehensive about her association with Aftab and decided to sever ties with him. When she went to Aftab's residence in Hubballi's Keshwarpura area to return the gifts he had given her, Aftab reacted aggressively, burning the gifts, scolding her, and repeatedly slapping her.
The woman recounted that she had known Aftab for two years, during which he had gifted her various items. However, her suspicions about Aftab's intentions grew after the shocking murder of Neha Hiremath. Feeling unsafe, she attempted to end their friendship, but Aftab's violent response left her shaken. Despite meeting Aftab at a public place for safety, she faced physical assault, including being struck on the head with a heavy object.
Fortunately, a passer-by intervened and rescued the woman, condemning Aftab's actions and emphasizing the need for justice. Additionally, members of a Hindu outfit arrived at the scene and apprehended Aftab, leading to his arrest following the woman's police complaint.
This incident occurred against the backdrop of Neha Hiremath's tragic murder, which heightened tensions and sparked debates over issues such as 'love jihad.' While police investigations initially indicated a romantic relationship between Neha and her assailant Fayaz Khodunaik, Neha's father refuted these claims, stating that she had rejected Fayaz's marriage proposal.
The incident underscores broader concerns about women's safety and highlights the need for stringent measures to prevent violence against women. Additionally, it has sparked political controversies, with the BJP and the Congress government engaging in contentious debates over the 'love jihad' narrative.
