Led by its local leader Manish Kumar, the group accused the youth of being involved in ‘love jihad’ , insulted the couple in public and forced them to sit at a police station for several hours.

They also called some media persons to the Medical College police station and asked them to click photographs of the students and intimidated the outnumbered police personnel when they objected.

The policemen then informed senior officials who sent additional police force to control the situation.

No one from the mob has been arrested.

Superintendent of Police (city) Ranvijay Singh said the police have received some videos and were trying to identify the troublemakers and their organisation. “Stern action would be initiated against them if found involved in any illegal activities,” said Singh.

VHP leader Manish Kumar was unrepentant and adamant. “People can’t be allowed to do anything in society even if the apex court allows adults to choose their partners,” he said.