The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Wednesday conducted searches at around 10 locations linked to Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, his Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust and Mohammad Ali Jauhar University.
The searches were carried out in Rampur and Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh and Delhi as part of a money-laundering investigation. Officials said the agency is examining the suspected movement of funds connected with government contracts and their alleged use for the trust and university.
What Is ED Investigating?
According to officials, the investigation is focused on allegations that some private contractors who received government contracts may have later transferred money to the Jauhar Trust and university.
Investigators are looking into financial transactions, including alleged donations and payments linked to construction work.
The ED is trying to trace the suspected proceeds of crime and establish how the money was allegedly transferred and used. Officers are also collecting financial documents, records and digital evidence during the searches.
The case is being investigated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).
The ED is also examining information from several cases previously registered against Azam Khan as part of its wider investigation.
Jauhar University Already Facing Government Action
The latest ED searches come at a time when Mohammad Ali Jauhar University in Rampur is already facing scrutiny over its buildings and fire-safety compliance.
The Rampur Development Authority had earlier taken action over allegations involving unauthorised construction at the university. Reports said the authority had ordered action against 38 buildings after questions were raised about approved building plans and fire-safety requirements.
However, the demolition matter has also gone through legal proceedings, with an interim stay reported in July. Therefore, the demolition issue remains separate from the ED’s current money-laundering investigation.
ED Searches Focus On Financial Records
During Wednesday’s operation, ED teams searched properties connected with the trust and university while examining documents related to their finances.
The agency’s investigation is aimed at determining whether money allegedly linked to government contracts was diverted through private contractors and subsequently used for activities or assets connected with the university and trust.
The searches are part of an ongoing investigation, and the allegations have not yet been established in court.
Azam Khan, a senior Samajwadi Party leader, has faced several legal cases in recent years. The latest ED action adds another layer to the investigations surrounding him and the Jauhar University.
