What Did the ED Discover in the Chhangur Baba Case?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate's investigation into Chhangur Baba reveals shocking findings of illegal funds amounting to Rs 60 crore linked to a religious conversion racket. Discover the details of this controversial case and its implications for both national security and religious practices.
Key Takeaways
- The ED has identified **Rs 60 crore** linked to Chhangur Baba as part of illegal activities.
- Chhangur Baba and his associates are accused of a **multi-state religious conversion racket**.
- Funds were received from foreign countries, primarily for purchasing properties.
- The investigation highlights significant implications for **national security**.
- Chhangur Baba is currently in **judicial custody** in Uttar Pradesh.
Lucknow, July 18 (NationPress) Following an extensive review of 22 bank accounts and raiding 15 locations linked to Chhangur Baba, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has uncovered Rs 60 crore obtained illegally by him, part of a larger multi-state religious conversion scheme, an official disclosed on Friday.
The investigations indicated that substantial funds were funneled in from foreign nations by Jamaluddin Shah, known as Chhangur Baba, and his associates. This money was utilized to purchase real estate under the names of his associates, thereby obscuring his actual role in money laundering.
The evidence gathered during the raids suggested that all properties owned by Chhangur Baba are registered under the names of his associates Naveen Rohra and Neetu Rohra, in an effort to hide his involvement in these illicit activities, according to a statement from the ED.
On Thursday, the ED conducted searches at properties and scrutinized the bank accounts of Baba's financial operative Shahzad Sheikh in two locations in Mumbai—Bandra and Mahim. Additional searches took place in Balrampur and Lucknow.
The Mumbai searches were prompted by evidence that Chhangur Baba received funds, including donations, from Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Nepal. The illegal operations involved transactions amounting to crores of rupees via over 40 bank accounts associated with shell entities.
These searches also yielded physical records pertinent to the investigation, as noted in the statement.
During the searches, multiple documents were confiscated, revealing that the Proceeds of Crime were primarily allocated to various individuals for acquiring multiple properties worth crores and executing construction projects on these properties, according to the statement.
The ED initiated this money laundering probe against the spiritual leader, who is currently facing judicial custody in Uttar Pradesh, based on a First Information Report (FIR) lodged by the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in Lucknow, alleging a large-scale conspiracy involving unlawful religious conversions, misuse of foreign funding, and activities that may threaten national security.
Chhangur Baba, along with his associates, is accused of forming a vast network operating from the Chand Auliya Dargah in Balrampur, where he frequently organized large gatherings attended by both Indian and foreign nationals.
He stands accused of systematically persuading, coercing, and manipulating individuals from other faiths, particularly Scheduled Castes and economically disadvantaged Hindus, into converting to his religion.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the gravity of the Chhangur Baba investigation. The allegations of religious conversion conspiracies involving foreign funding pose significant challenges to national unity and security. It's essential to approach this matter with diligence, ensuring that all facts are presented transparently while respecting the complexities of faith and belief systems in our diverse nation.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Chhangur Baba case about?
The Chhangur Baba case involves an investigation by the Enforcement Directorate into illegal funds linked to a multi-state religious conversion racket, amounting to Rs 60 crore.
Who is Chhangur Baba?
Chhangur Baba, also known as Jamaluddin Shah, is a spiritual leader currently under investigation for alleged money laundering and unlawful religious conversions.
Where were the searches conducted?
The ED conducted searches in several locations including Mumbai, Balrampur, and Lucknow, focusing on properties linked to Chhangur Baba and his associates.
What evidence has been found?
Evidence includes a significant amount of illicit funds, documents revealing property acquisitions, and connections to foreign donations from countries like Saudi Arabia and Dubai.
What are the implications of this case?
The case raises serious concerns regarding national security, foreign influence in domestic religious practices, and the potential manipulation of vulnerable populations.
