Who is ‘Chhangur Baba’ and why was he arrested by ED in a religious conversion racket?
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Synopsis
In a shocking development, the Enforcement Directorate has arrested ‘Chhangur Baba,’ a key figure in a vast religious conversion scheme, raising questions about international funding and local impacts. The intricate web of deceit and manipulation surrounding this case has drawn attention across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- Chhangur Baba arrested in a major religious conversion case.
- ED seeks to uncover international funding sources.
- Raids conducted across multiple locations.
- Suspicions of large-scale manipulation through social media.
- Investigation extends beyond Uttar Pradesh.
Lucknow, July 28 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has taken into custody Maulana Jalaluddin, popularly known as ‘Chhangur Baba’, as part of an extensive investigation into a multi-crore religious conversion scheme.
He was presented before a specialized ED court in Lucknow, which decided to hold him for five days.
Although the agency requested a seven-day remand, the court permitted only a five-day custody period. ED officials highlighted that this duration is essential to uncover the purported international funding networks associated with the conversion syndicate.
Prior to his arrest, the ED executed a significant search operation across 15 locations linked to Chhangur Baba—12 in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, and two in Mumbai. These raids were part of an ongoing investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
Authorities suspect that the syndicate received financial support amounting to approximately Rs 106 crore, primarily from Middle Eastern nations, to facilitate widespread religious conversions. The ED is currently following the money trail to pinpoint foreign sponsors and local recipients.
Initially thought to be limited to Uttar Pradesh, the investigation has revealed that the network has extended into Uttarakhand, thereby broadening the inquiry's scope.
The ED claims that Chhangur Baba and his associates developed a sophisticated strategy aimed at targeting women for conversion. They allegedly utilized social media platforms like Instagram, sharing religious content to attract and influence women. Once ensnared, these women were systematically brainwashed and converted.
Officials are convinced that the operation was highly organized, with distinct units responsible for recruitment, propaganda, and financial dealings.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) apprehended Chhangur Baba on July 7 for purportedly orchestrating an illicit religious conversion racket.
Reports indicate that Chhangur Baba and his wife allegedly lured 40 Hindu girls into conversion to Islam, according to FIRs filed in various districts of Uttar Pradesh.
Just two days prior, Balrampur police dismantled an illegal structure linked to a close associate of Chhangur Baba.
Point of View
The arrest of Chhangur Baba highlights the critical need for scrutiny in matters of religious conversion, especially when financial incentives and international connections are involved. It is essential for authorities to ensure transparency and uphold the law without compromising the rights of individuals.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Chhangur Baba facing?
Chhangur Baba is accused of leading a multi-crore religious conversion racket that allegedly targeted women for conversion through manipulation and financial incentives.
What is the role of the Enforcement Directorate in this case?
The Enforcement Directorate is investigating the financial aspects of the racket under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, aiming to uncover international funding sources.
How did the investigation begin?
The investigation began after reports indicated illegal religious conversions were taking place in Uttar Pradesh, leading to extensive searches and the subsequent arrest of Chhangur Baba.
What is the significance of this case?
This case underscores the potential dangers of organized religious conversion schemes and highlights the need for legal and ethical oversight in such matters.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The ED will continue to trace the financial networks involved and gather more evidence to build a case against Chhangur Baba and his associates.
