The Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched extensive early morning raids on Wednesday across 10 locations connected to Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan. The coordinated operations were initiated at various properties situated in Rampur, Saharanpur, and the national capital Delhi. Investigative teams arrived at the premises at break of day to begin search operations. The action encompasses personal residences as well as affiliated institutional and trust premises linked to the leader.
Investigation into Construction Funds and Money Laundering
The crackdown stems from allegations concerning the illegal deployment of black money in the construction of Jauhar University. Federal investigators suspect that illicit financial resources were channeled into creating the university infrastructure. Following a shared dossier containing details of several dozen cases registered against Azam Khan, the agency escalated its enforcement measures. Consequently, official search procedures were extended to cover both the campus of Jauhar University and the offices of its management trust.
Legal Scrutiny Over 38 Campus Buildings and Interim Stay
These raids coincide with ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the structural authorization of the university complex. The Rampur Development Authority (RDA) had previously identified alleged procedural irregularities across the site, issuing demolition directives that put 38 out of the university's 40 buildings at risk of being dismantled. However, relief was granted when the Moradabad Commissioner Court intervened and issued an interim stay halting the execution of the RDA demolition order. The court has scheduled the next hearing on this matter for August 25.
Tax Department Notice and Trust Status Reclassification
In addition to financial oversight, the governing body of the institution has faced regulatory action from tax officials. The scrutiny intensified following an initial notice issued on June 17, which was followed by a subsequent notice on June 23 from the Tax Department. Citing multiple compliance breaches and violations of statutory regulations, authorities revoked the formal registration of the Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust. Furthermore, regulatory directives mandated that the organization reclassify its legal entity status to an 'Association of Persons'.
