Is There an Illegal Stay of Foreign Nationals in a Madrasa in Nandurbar?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra government investigates illegal foreign residents in a madrasa. Allegations include land grabbing and scholarship scams. Will this lead to a larger crackdown on madrasas across Maharashtra? Find out more about the ongoing scrutiny and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- Investigation initiated into illegal foreign nationals in a madrasa.
- Enforcement Directorate involved due to financial concerns.
- Allegations of land grabbing and scholarship fraud are serious issues.
- Calls for systematic checks across madrasas in Maharashtra.
- Legal repercussions for officials involved in document irregularities.
Mumbai, July 16 (NationPress) The Minister of State for Home, Pankaj Bhoyar, announced in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Wednesday that an inquiry has commenced regarding the Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom, a religious educational institution, facilitated by the Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS). This investigation follows the discovery that two Yemeni nationals were unlawfully residing within its madrasa located in Akkalkuwa, Nandurbar district.
The Chief Minister Fadnavis has directed that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) be engaged for further investigation, given that the institution has a reported turnover of Rs 728 crore.
In response to a Calling Attention Motion initiated by member Devendra Kothe, Minister Bhoyar stated that the Home Department has also involved the Charity Commissioner for a thorough inquiry.
Despite their visas expiring on February 19, 2016, the Yemeni individuals continued their stay at the madrasa of Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom.
Kothe has urged for the cancellation of the madrasa's recognition, alleging that it has unlawfully seized tribal lands and engaged in a scholarship fraud.
Minister Bhoyar confirmed that the two Yemeni citizens were still residing in the madrasa post-visa expiration and were arrested after police intervention.
The organization’s founder and president were also detained but were subsequently released on bail. The state has raised concerns regarding foreign funding received by the institution and has lodged a complaint with the central government.
Minister Bhoyar indicated that the inquiry will extend to allegations regarding land acquisition from tribal communities and scholarship fraud.
MLA Harish Pimple questioned the legitimacy of how Yemeni citizens obtained Aadhaar cards, PAN cards, and other identification documents, demanding the suspension of officials who failed to verify these documents.
Minister Bhoyar assured that appropriate action would be taken against any officials found negligent after an investigation.
MLA Gopichand Padalkar raised concerns about the institution's medical college, claiming it has a capacity for 60 students yet lacks patients, suggesting that fraudulent admissions are being reported.
He also inquired whether a search operation would be conducted across all madrasas in Maharashtra to ascertain the identities of their residents.
The minister responded that information would be sought from the Medical Education Department regarding the medical college associated with Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom.
Point of View
I believe that every allegation must be thoroughly investigated to uphold the rule of law. Our support lies with the truth, regardless of the institution involved. It is crucial that foreign nationals are held accountable for their actions, and that organizations act within legal frameworks.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the investigation of Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom?
The investigation was initiated after it was found that two Yemeni nationals were illegally residing in the madrasa despite their visas having expired.
What is the role of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in this case?
The ED has been directed to investigate the financial aspects of the madrasa, particularly due to its significant turnover of Rs 728 crore.
Are there allegations beyond illegal residency?
Yes, there are serious allegations regarding land grabbing from tribal communities and potential scholarship scams.
What action has been taken against the individuals involved?
The Yemeni citizens and the organization's founder and president were arrested but later granted bail.
Will other madrasas in Maharashtra be investigated?
The possibility of a broader search operation across madrasas in Maharashtra has been raised, but no official decision has been announced yet.
