Damning Revelations in Chhangur Baba Conversion Case: ED Raids Uncover Massive Financial Network

Unveiling the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case: A Deep Dive into the ED’s Crackdown

In a significant development shaking the foundations of an alleged illegal religious conversion racket, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched extensive raids across 14 locations in Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai. These operations are part of a widening investigation into the notorious Chhangur Baba Conversion Case, targeting potential money laundering and the illicit use of foreign funding. The scale of the alleged financial irregularities and the sensitive nature of the accusations have brought this case into national focus, raising serious concerns about communal harmony and national security.

The Operation: ED’s Simultaneous Raids Across Key Locations in Chhangur Baba Conversion Case

The coordinated raids, which commenced early Wednesday morning, saw ED teams, supported by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), meticulously search 12 premises in Utraula, Balrampur district, Uttar Pradesh, and two crucial locations in Mumbai. This widespread operation underscores the seriousness with which authorities are pursuing the allegations against Jamaluddin, also known as Chhangur Baba, the alleged mastermind of this sprawling network.

Key points of the raids include:

• Extensive Reach: Simultaneous searches across Uttar Pradesh (Balrampur) and Mumbai.
• Targeted Premises: Focusing on properties linked to Chhangur Baba and his associates.
• Purpose: Investigating potential money laundering and foreign funding avenues under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
• Early Start: Operations began at approximately 5 AM, indicating a well-planned strategy to maximize the element of surprise.

The Accusations: Financial Web and Religious Manipulation in the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case

The ED’s involvement stems from an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) registered under the PMLA against Jamaluddin alias Chhangur Baba. He stands accused of orchestrating illegal religious conversions and misusing substantial foreign funds. The initial findings have painted a grim picture of a sophisticated operation:

• Staggering Finances: Chhangur Baba reportedly holds approximately ₹106 crore spread across 40 bank accounts, with the bulk of these funds allegedly originating from Middle Eastern sources. Some reports suggest the figure could be as high as ₹500 crore, routed into these accounts from Gulf countries and possibly Pakistan.
• Organized Network: Officials report that Chhangur Baba established an “extensive network” operating from the Chand Auliya Dargah premises, where he purportedly organized large gatherings attended by both Indian and foreign nationals.
• Conversion Tactics: He is accused of using religious discourses, publishing a book titled “Shijra-e-Tayyaba,” and employing psychological influence to promote Islam. The allegations specifically highlight the manipulation of individuals from other faiths, particularly Hindus, Scheduled Castes, and economically disadvantaged persons, into religious conversions.
• Fixed Incentive Structure: Disturbing reports suggest a “fixed incentive structure” for conversions, with varying amounts paid based on the caste of the person converting – for instance, ₹8-10 lakh for other castes and up to ₹15-16 lakh for Brahmin, Sikh, or Kshatriya women.
• Asset Accumulation: Over a few years, Chhangur Baba allegedly amassed assets exceeding ₹100 crore, acquired through this illicit network. This includes the purchase of land and the construction of residential, commercial, and institutional structures without proper land use conversion approvals.
• Illegal Properties: Several illegally constructed properties, including parts of Chhangur Baba’s residence in Madhupur, have already faced demolition by the district administration.

The Investigation Timeline: Key Developments in the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case

The raids are the latest in a series of actions taken by law enforcement agencies in connection with the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case:

• July 5: Chhangur Baba and his associate Neetu alias Nasreen were arrested by the Lucknow Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) from a Lucknow hotel. They remained in ATS custody until July 16.
• July 9/10: The ED registered the ECIR and initiated a formal investigation under the PMLA. The agency also sought detailed information about Chhangur Baba from local police authorities, the District Magistrate, and various banks to trace the source and use of foreign contributions.
• Demolition Drives: Concurrently, the district administration began demolishing illegally constructed properties linked to Chhangur Baba and his associates.
• Interrogation: The investigation has also focused on individuals like Shehzad Sheikh, to whose accounts nearly ₹2 crore was allegedly transferred from an accused named Naveen.

Broader Implications and Ongoing Scrutiny of the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case

The Chhangur Baba Conversion Case has far-reaching implications, extending beyond just financial fraud. Authorities are actively investigating possible threats to national security and communal harmony. The case serves as a stark reminder of increased scrutiny on financial flows linked to organizations suspected of violating the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The multi-agency probe involving the ATS, ED, and potentially the National Investigation Agency (NIA) highlights the gravity of the allegations. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has reportedly termed Chhangur Baba’s activities “anti-social” and “anti-national,” indicating the government’s resolute stance against such alleged illicit operations.

As the ED continues to analyze financial transactions and records, more details are expected to emerge, potentially uncovering the full extent of this alleged religious conversion racket and its implications. The investigation into the Chhangur Baba Conversion Case stands as a testament to the authorities’ commitment to safeguarding national integrity and upholding the rule of law against complex criminal enterprises.