Al Falah University faces deeper scrutiny as ED investigates blast links and financial fraud

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Al Falah University has come under intense national focus after several suspects in the recent Delhi blast were found to have links with the institution. A massive explosives haul in Faridabad and the car blast near Delhi’s Red Fort, which claimed over 10 lives, pushed the university into the centre of multiple investigations. Officials confirmed that Dr Muzammil Shakil and Dr Umar Un Nabi, both connected to Al Falah, are among those under the scanner.

Chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui Arrested by the Enforcement Directorate


The Enforcement Directorate arrested Al Falah Group chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui on Tuesday in a money laundering case. He was taken into custody under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act after investigators noted inconsistencies in his statements and the university’s operations. 

The ED acted on two FIRs filed by the Delhi Police Crime Branch, which allege fraudulent claims of National Assessment Accreditation Council accreditation made to mislead students and parents.

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ED Alleges Diversion of Funds and Shell Companies


According to the ED, “large amounts of proceeds of crime have been generated. Evidence reveals that crores of rupees have been diverted by the trust to family-owned entities.” A senior ED official told HT that Siddiqui exercised “complete control” over the trust and its growth, even though the financials did not align with its rapid expansion. 

Officials added that nine companies linked to the family show classic indicators of shell firms, including shared addresses, overlapping directors, and negligible operational activity.

Seizures and Red Flags Found During Searches


During the raids, investigators seized Rs. 48 lakh in cash, electronic gadgets, and papers related to finance that indicated dubious trade. Another official added that many construction, catering, and service contracts were being given to companies affiliated with Siddiqui's wife and kids regularly.

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 There were missing salary records, no HR documents, and no statutory filings like EPFO and ESIC were found at the site, which made non-compliance even more suspicious.

A Case Blending Security Concerns and Financial Fraud


The investigation places Al Falah University at the intersection of national security and financial irregularities. The blast-linked arrests give the case strong urgency, while the alleged misuse of accreditation and funds adds a deeper institutional dimension. 

As probe agencies widen their scrutiny, the findings may shape future oversight on private educational institutions, especially those connected to sensitive law enforcement cases.

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