Al Falah Group Chaiman Jawed Siddiqui In ED Custody For 13 Days

New Delhi, Nov 19: A Delhi court on Wednesday sent Al Falah University founder Jawed Ahmed Siddiqui to 13 days’ Enforcement Directorate custody in a terror-linked money laundering case.

Siddiqui, arrested on Tuesday evening, was produced close to midnight before Additional Sessions Judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan, with proceedings continuing till 1 am. The court held that all requirements under Section 19 of the PMLA were met and, given the gravity of the offence and the early stage of investigation, granted ED custody.

The agency alleged the Faridabad-based university falsely projected itself as UGC-recognised and misrepresented its NAAC accreditation. According to the ED, the institution generated ₹415.10 crore in educational revenue between 2018 and 2025, rising from ₹24.21 crore in 2018–19 to ₹80.10 crore in 2024–25.

Officials said the Al-Falah Group witnessed a rapid expansion since the 1990s, but its financials do not match the assets accumulated. The ED claimed funds collected from students and duped individuals were allegedly diverted for personal use, and that Siddiqui exercised de facto control over the trust and university.

Special Prosecutor Simon Benjamin argued for 14-day custody, saying interrogation was needed to trace the proceeds of crime and prevent possible rerouting or concealment of assets.

Siddiqui’s arrest followed day-long searches at 19 locations in Delhi-NCR, during which the ED seized ₹48 lakh in cash. The case is linked to the Red Fort area car blast probe. (Agencies)