A 40-year-old primary school teacher, Naushad, was shot dead outside his school in Bijnor on Tuesday by a man who later surrendered and told the police that he suspected the teacher of “encouraging love jihad”, an officer said on Wednesday, adding that Mr. Rathi was arrested after he surrendered. ‘Love jihad’ is a term coined by right-wing outfits for interfaith couples.

Naushad was preparing to return home after classes ended at Saupuri Primary School when Mr. Rathi opened fire at him. Police said they are probing the accused’s statement and other aspects of the case.

Bijnor SP K.K. Bishnoi said the reason for the murder had “not yet been established”.