Did the ED Target Chhangur Baba's Aide in Mumbai?
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Synopsis
The recent ED operation in Mumbai targeted properties linked to Chhangur Baba’s associate, Shahzad Sheikh, as part of a money laundering inquiry. The search unveiled significant amounts of illicit funds and raised questions about the legitimacy of religious donations being funneled into shell companies.
Key Takeaways
- The ED conducted extensive searches in Mumbai related to Chhangur Baba's financial associate.
- Significant amounts of money linked to illicit activities were uncovered.
- Chhangur Baba is under scrutiny for allegedly operating a religious conversion racket.
- Investigations are ongoing with multiple suspects still at large.
- The operation underscores the need for transparency in religious funding.
Mumbai, July 17 (NationPress) - On Thursday, the ED agents conducted an extensive search and confiscated bank accounts, property documentation, and digital files at the Bandra and Mahim properties belonging to Shahzad Sheikh, a financial aide of Chhangur Baba. This operation forms part of a broader investigation into money laundering activities through shell companies associated with an alleged multi-state religious conversion scheme led by the spiritual figure Jamaluddin Shah, popularly known as Chhangur Baba.
The raids in Mumbai were prompted by evidence suggesting that Chhangur Baba received funds—including donations—from countries such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and Nepal. These illicit transactions are estimated to involve a staggering Rs 200-300 crore.
Reportedly, members of Chhangur Baba’s network made approximately forty trips to various Islamic nations and opened over 40 bank accounts linked to shell organizations.
The early morning search in Mahim took place at Rizvi Heights, under the watchful eye of Sheikh, who is suspected of providing hawala services to manage the controversial spiritual leader's finances.
During the operation on Thursday, Sheikh was interrogated regarding the funds deposited in his account and their intended purposes.
The ED has reason to believe that Sheikh received these funds for illicit activities, including religious conversions and inciting public unrest.
The Mahim searches were particularly focused on Rs one crore that was transferred into Sheikh’s bank accounts from Chhangur Baba's accounts, courtesy of the spiritual leader’s associate, Naveen Ghanshyam Rohra.
As security personnel monitored the entrance of Rizvi Heights, ED officials conducted thorough searches for several hours in this upscale neighborhood.
Sources indicate that the mobile records and bank transactions belonging to Sheikh were also scrutinized by ED investigators.
This series of multi-city raids on Thursday aimed to determine if the spiritual leader's organization served as a facade for a hawala operation disguised as donations for religious initiatives.
In addition to Mumbai, the ED also targeted 12 locations in Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, as part of the investigation into the alleged money laundering associated with the religious conversion racket.
Throughout these 14 searches, the ED reportedly uncovered a significant amount of land documentation, luxury vehicles, gold, and unaccounted cash.
Chhangur Baba was captured by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in Madhpur village within the Balrampur district after several months of evading authorities. Following the conclusion of his police remand, he was placed in judicial custody on Thursday.
Investigators are actively pursuing remaining suspects, including individuals identified as Mehboob, Pinky Harijan, Hazira Shankar, Sagir, and a person posing as a journalist, Amen Rizvi.
Point of View
This investigation reflects the growing scrutiny on financial practices within religious organizations. It highlights the importance of transparency in donations, especially when significant funds are involved. The ED's actions signal a robust approach to tackling financial misconduct, ensuring accountability while respecting religious freedoms.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the ED's raid in Mumbai?
The ED's raid was prompted by allegations of money laundering connected to Chhangur Baba's network, which is suspected of receiving illicit funds from various countries.
Who is Chhangur Baba?
Chhangur Baba, whose real name is Jamaluddin Shah, is a spiritual leader allegedly involved in a multi-state religious conversion racket.
What was seized during the ED's operation?
The ED seized bank accounts, property documents, digital records, and conducted thorough searches of properties linked to suspect Shahzad Sheikh.
What is the estimated amount of money involved?
The illegal transactions are estimated to involve approximately Rs 200-300 crore.
Are there any other suspects connected to this case?
Yes, investigators are pursuing several other suspects associated with Chhangur Baba, including individuals identified as Mehboob, Pinky Harijan, and others.
