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As a result of a detailed investigation following a search operation that began early this morning, sources told CNBC-TV18 that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, Chairman of Al Falah Group, in a money laundering case involving Al Falah Charitable Trust.
According to sources, Siddiqui was arrested today, November 18, 2025, under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.
The arrests followed a detailed investigation and analysis of evidence collected during searches conducted at premises linked to the Al Falah group, the sources said. This action is part of the ongoing investigation based on the ECIR filed by ED under PMLA.
Investigation initiated into fraudulent accreditation claims
According to sources, the ED started the investigation on the basis of two FIRs filed by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police. The FIR alleges that Al-Falah University, Faridabad made fraudulent and misleading claims of NAAC affiliation with the intention of deceiving students, parents and stakeholders for ill-gotten gains.
Sources said the FIR also mentioned that Al-Falah University has made false claim of recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956 with the aim of deceiving candidates, students, parents, guardians and the general public. He said the UGC has clarified that the university is incorporated under Section 2(f) only as a state private university, has never applied for incorporation under Section 12(b), and is not eligible for grants under that section.
Trust Structure and Control, by Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui
Sources told CNBC-TV18 that the Al-Falah Charitable Trust was formed under a public charitable trust deed on 8 September 1995, with Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui named as one of the first trustees and managing trustee. All educational institutions under the group – including universities and colleges – are ultimately owned and financially consolidated under the trust, which sources said is effectively controlled by Siddiqui.
Sources said that Al-Falah Group has experienced tremendous growth since the 1990s, transforming into a large educational body, but this growth has not received sufficient financial support.
Search across 19 locations; Cash and digital evidence seized
Sources revealed that the ED today, November 18, 2025, conducted search operations at 19 locations in Delhi, including the Al-Falah University campus and residential complexes of prominent individuals. According to him, investigation reveals that a huge amount of proceeds of crime has been generated.
Sources said evidence indicated that crores of rupees had been given by the trust to family-owned entities. He gave examples such as construction and catering contracts were allegedly given by the trust and entities owned by Siddiqui to his wife and children.
During the search, ED officials seized more than ₹48 lakh in cash, several digital devices and various documentary evidence. Sources further said that several shell companies linked to the group have been identified, and several violations under various acts have been detected.
Evidence of fund diversion and layering
Sources said multiple evidences point to Siddiqui’s effective control over the trust and its activities. According to him, recovery of cash from trustees, diversion of funds to family-owned entities, and layering of funds clearly establish the pattern of generation and laundering of proceeds of crime.
Arrest and court appearance
Sources told CNBC-TV18 that after being proven guilty of the crime, Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui was arrested today after due legal process under Section 19 of the PMLA. He has been produced in the court by ED seeking remand.
Sources said that further investigation is going on.