ED arrests Al Falah Group chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui in money-laundering probe: What we know so far

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday, November 18, arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, chairman of the Al Falah Group and managing trustee of the Al Falah Charitable Trust, in a money-laundering case linked to alleged fraud at Al Falah University in Faridabad. The arrest was made under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after investigators analysed evidence gathered during nationwide searches earlier in the day.

What triggered the ED probe?

The investigation stems from two FIRs filed by the Delhi Police Crime Branch. The FIRs allege that Al Falah University made fraudulent claims of NAAC accreditation and falsely projected recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act to mislead students and stakeholders. The UGC later clarified that the university is recognised only under Section 2(f) as a State Private University and has never been eligible for grants under Section 12(B).

Trust structure and alleged diversion of funds

Al Falah Charitable Trust, set up in 1995, controls all institutions under the group. Evidence recovered during searches shows that the trust, under Siddiqui’s control, diverted large sums to family-owned entities. Contracts for construction and catering were allegedly awarded to firms linked to Siddiqui’s wife and children. ED officials said this created a clear pattern of fund diversion, layering and generation of proceeds of crime.

Search operations and evidence seized

The ED searched 19 locations in Delhi, including Al Falah University and residences of key officials. During the raids, investigators seized over Rs 48 lakh in cash, multiple digital devices, documents and details of shell companies linked to the group. The agency said the group’s rapid expansion over the past three decades was not supported by genuine financials.

After reviewing the material, the ED concluded that Siddiqui exercised effective control over the trust and played a central role in the alleged laundering network. He was arrested on Tuesday and produced in court for custodial remand. The agency said further investigation into the financial trail, shell entities and beneficiary links is under way.