Interfaith Wedding Clash: Tailor Arrested in Thane

A 20-year-old tailor from Thane has been arrested for allegedly raping a minor and trying to force her into marriage after an interfaith wedding was halted by activists. The accused, Armaan Sheikh, faces charges under the POCSO Act. Investigations continue as the case unfolds.

A young tailor from Thane district has been remanded in custody following allegations of raping a minor and coercing her into marriage. The intended interfaith wedding was disrupted by activists, according to police sources on Monday.

The accused, a Bhiwandi resident, befriended the victim via social media. Their friendship evolved into a relationship, culminating in a planned marriage at a Bhiwandi location. However, a protest by a Hindutva organization led to chaos, thwarting the ceremony.

A complaint against Armaan Sheikh ensued, resulting in charges of blackmail, rape, and criminal intimidation under the POCSO Act and specific Indian Penal Code sections. The accused is alleged to have pressured the victim into marriage after their relationship turned physical once she became an adult.

(With inputs from agencies.)