Daijiworld Media Network - Bhopal
Bhopal, Nov 20: A day after Al Falah University founder Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui was remanded to 13-day Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody in a terror-financing–linked money laundering investigation, he now faces fresh trouble. Police in Bhopal have registered a new FIR against him in a Rs 2 crore fraud case, adding another layer to the widening probe.
Siddiqui came under sharp scrutiny following revelations of his alleged connection to the Delhi blast incident, with the ED asserting that nearly Rs 415.10 crore was generated through fake accreditation practices and fabricated claims of statutory approvals.
Officials revealed that Siddiqui had been evading Bhopal Police for years, despite being wanted in an older financial fraud case.
Investigators allege that between 1997 and 2001, Siddiqui and his brother Hamood Siddiqui operated a chit fund scheme in Bhopal, enticing investors with promises of doubling their deposits. By 2001, both brothers had vanished, prompting multiple FIRs at Talaiya and Shahjahanabad police stations. Siddiqui was also accused of fleeing with funds belonging to gas tragedy victims.
With the latest developments, allegations have resurfaced that Siddiqui not only duped the public but may also have funnelled funds into activities linked to terrorism. The newly registered fraud case—dating back 24 years and worth over Rs 2 crore—had earlier seen Siddiqui obtain anticipatory bail, while his brother was later acquitted.
On Sunday, the ED arrested Siddiqui, asserting in court that he and the Al Falah charitable trust amassed over Rs 415 crore in illicit proceeds by misleading students and parents with fake NAAC accreditation and false claims of UGC recognition. The agency has taken note of two Delhi Police Crime Branch FIRs alleging the use of fabricated accreditation to boost admissions at the university.
The ED further argued that Siddiqui exercised complete control over staff handling admissions, accounts, fee management and IT systems—giving him the power to tamper with crucial records during the investigation.
Since the 1990s, the Al Falah group has witnessed rapid expansion into a sizeable educational network, despite financial statements that authorities say do not match the group’s soaring assets.
Siddiqui will remain in ED custody until December 1, as officials continue probing the extensive financial irregularities and accreditation fraud linked to Al Falah University.
Meanwhile, the Mhow Cantonment Board (MCB) in Madhya Pradesh has issued a notice to the current occupant of Siddiqui’s ancestral home, directing the removal of unauthorised construction on the property.