ED arrests Al Falah group chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui in money laundering probe

The Enforcement Directorate on Tuesday arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, chairman of the Al Falah group, in a money laundering case linked to Al Falah Charitable Trust. The arrest was made under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) following an investigation based on evidence gathered during recent searches at locations connected to the group.

The ED launched its probe after two FIRs were filed by the Delhi Police Crime Branch alleging that Al-Falah University, Faridabad, made misleading claims about NAAC accreditation and falsely stated that it had recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act. According to the FIRs, these claims were intended to deceive students, parents and other stakeholders for unlawful gain. The UGC clarified that the university is recognised only under Section 2(f) as a State Private University, has never applied for Section 12(B), and is not eligible for grants under that provision.

Al-Falah Charitable Trust, established in 1995 with Siddiqui as managing trustee, owns and financially consolidates all institutions under the group. The trust has expanded significantly over the decades, but the growth is not supported by the group’s financial records.


Searches were carried out at 19 locations in Delhi on Tuesday, including the university campus and residences of key personnel. The ED said large amounts of proceeds of crime were generated and that funds running into crores were diverted to family-owned entities. It found that construction and catering contracts were awarded to firms linked to Siddiqui’s wife and children. Officials seized over Rs 48 lakh in cash, several digital devices and documents during the search operations. The agency also identified multiple shell companies and noted violations under other laws.

Investigators said evidence shows Siddiqui exercised effective control over the trust’s operations. The ED said the recovery of cash, diversion of funds and layering of money indicate a clear pattern of laundering of proceeds of crime.
After determining his role in the alleged offences, the agency arrested Siddiqui and produced him before a court to seek custody.