The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday launched a large-scale search operation at 14 locations, including Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra, in connection with the high-profile religious conversion case involving Jamaluddin alias Chhangur Baba. The raids are part of an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering, foreign funding misuse, and large-scale unlawful religious conversions.
The agency’s early morning operation—covering 12 sites in Utraula, Balrampur district, and two locations in Mumbai—aims to track financial trails linked to Chhangur Baba, whose activities are under the scanner for potentially disturbing communal harmony and national security.
Probe into Rs 106 crore in foreign funds
According to officials, the ED recently registered an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against Chhangur Baba. The agency is probing suspected foreign contributions amounting toRs106 crore received through 40 different bank accounts—mainly from Middle Eastern countries.
These funds are suspected to have been funneled into orchestrated mass religious conversions and unlawful constructions, bypassing regulatory approvals and legal requirements.
ED steps up scrutiny, seeks details from local authorities
As part of its probe, the ED has sent formal communication to the Superintendent of Police, ATS Lucknow, and the District Magistrate of Balrampur to obtain certified FIR copies, property records, and details of individuals and organisations linked to Chhangur Baba. Multiple banks have also been contacted to share statements from accounts flagged in the FIR.
Chhangur Baba, a resident of Madhupur in Balrampur district, was arrested along with his associate Neetu alias Nasreen on July 5 from a hotel in Lucknow. Both are in the custody of the ATS till July 16.
Properties under demolition, assets under lens
District authorities have reportedly initiated demolition of structures allegedly constructed illegally by Chhangur Baba and his associates. These include portions of his residence in Madhupur and other commercial properties acquired without necessary land use approvals.
Officials allege that Baba’s network, operating from the Chand Auliya Dargah, systematically targeted economically disadvantaged groups, including Scheduled Castes and Hindus, through psychological influence, religious discourses, and a publication titled Shijra-e-Tayyaba. His activities allegedly coerced individuals into conversion, enabling the acquisition of wealth and influence through fraudulent means.
ED intensifies efforts under PMLA and FCRA violations
The ED’s current focus is on tracing the origin and utilisation of the foreign funds suspected to have been received in violation of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) and the PMLA. More raids and financial audits are likely in the coming days as investigators analyse bank transactions and asset records.