Shamli: Police in Uttar Pradesh’s Shamli district have registered an FIR against 11 people in a case involving allegations of forced religious conversion, a fake nikah and blackmail linked to property worth several crores. The case is connected to Ayush Malik, son of medical store owner Devraj Malik, while police have arrested Chandni Qureshi and her father, Ismail Qureshi, as the investigation continues.
Woman And Father Arrested
According to police, the accused allegedly lured Ayush Malik into a romantic relationship and later used a fabricated nikahnama to pressure him into religious conversion. Investigators are examining claims that the alleged conspiracy was aimed at gaining control over assets owned by Ayush and his family.
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Police said Devraj Malik runs two major medical stores in the city and serves as the district president of a chemist association. The family owns houses, land and vehicles collectively valued at several crores, with a significant portion reportedly registered in Ayush Malik’s name.
Investigators allege that Chandni Qureshi and her family had been watching the family’s property for some time. Police said the accused initially influenced Ayush emotionally and later allegedly used the fake marriage document to blackmail him.
Fake Nikah And Conversion Claims Under Probe
Police have alleged that pressure was mounted on Ayush to convert his religion and sell property to continue the relationship. Investigators are also examining whether religious content and social media platforms were used to influence him.
According to police, the accused allegedly encouraged Ayush to listen to online sermons of a Pakistan-based preacher on YouTube. Authorities said he reportedly began watching the videos regularly over time.
Officials said the case may not be limited to a personal relationship dispute and could involve a coordinated effort. In view of the sensitivity of the allegations, Special Investigation Teams, the Local Intelligence Unit and other intelligence agencies have been deployed to examine the matter.
Investigators Examine Financial And Digital Trail
A total of 11 people have been booked in the case, including the woman, her father, brother, sisters and several clerics. Police said the roles of all named accused and unidentified individuals are being examined.
Statements of the arrested accused are being recorded, while efforts are underway to trace others named in the FIR. Investigators are verifying financial records, digital footprints and communication data to establish the sequence of events.
Officials said strict legal action will be taken if evidence of an organised network or wider conversion racket emerges. Police have also urged the public not to circulate rumours and to wait for verified findings as the investigation continues.
