Yog Raj Sharma
The North News
Shimla, March 28
The Himachal Police are investigating a complaint against a Bangladeshi student accused of moving around temples and markets in female attire, after authorities said his identity and visa documents had been verified as valid but inquiries were still continuing. The complaint, received on 27 March, alleged that a man who described himself on Instagram as a Bangladeshi Muslim had been seen in what was described as an unusual appearance in Shimla. It also claimed he had visited the Kali Bari temple and was moving through Lower Bazaar and Middle Bazaar in a sari, allegedly asking people for money.
Shimla Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh said the complaint was examined in detail and the man was identified as Islam Mohammad Shahidul, son of Muhammad Sharif Ali, originally from Rajshahi in Bangladesh and currently staying at APG University in Shimla.
According to police, he is a BJMC student at APG University, enrolled from 2024 to 2028, and is currently in the fourth semester. SP Gaurav Yadav said that during questioning, the student told police he belongs to the kinnar community, worships Goddess Kali, and had visited Kali Bari temple, Jakhu temple and local markets several times during Navratri and on other occasions.
The Police said no one had filed a direct complaint accusing him of extortion or forcibly taking money. However, the student reportedly told investigators that if people voluntarily gave him money, he did not refuse it.
SP Singh said police checked the student’s old and current passports, S-1 study visa, stay visa, national identity card, APG University fee slips, and Class 10 and 12 marksheets, and found them to be genuine and valid.
He added that the investigation was continuing.
The case has triggered political reactions in Himachal Pradesh.
Leader of the Opposition Jai Ram Thakur described the matter as serious and said it raised concerns about intelligence and security lapses. He alleged that such incidents hurt Hindu sentiments and called for a fair and speedy inquiry.
Shimla Urban Congress MLA Harish Janartha also said the issue should be treated seriously and that a full investigation should be conducted. He said strict action would follow if any student on a student visa was found to be involved in wrongdoing.
The case emerged after the Hindu Raksha Manch raised objections and lodged a complaint, alleging the student had been frequenting temples and collecting money while dressed in female attire.
