₹728 crore foreign funding to madarasa in Nandurbar

ED to investigate !

Mumbai – A madarasa named Jamia Islamia Ishatun Uloom, located in Akkalkuwa, Nandurbar, has received a massive foreign funding of ₹728.61 crore. A case has been registered against the founder-president of the madarasa along with a couple allegedly involved in the matter. Minister of State for Home Pankaj Bhoir informed the Legislative Assembly that the government has appointed an accountant to examine the accounts and a legal advisor for further action.

This issue came to light after BJP MLA Devendra Kothe raised it through a motion in the Assembly. In response, Minister Pankaj Bhoir provided the following details:

BJP MLA Devendra Kothe demanded that the madarasa be de-recognised, its president arrested, and a special police team conduct a thorough investigation.

Minister Pankaj Bhoir stated that, considering the massive financial transactions involved, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has handed over the case to the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The Home Department has also instructed the Charity Commissioner to take appropriate action. A case was registered at the Akkalkuwa police station on 11 February 2025.

The couple allegedly used forged documents including Aadhaar card, PAN card, and birth certificate to carry out these financial dealings. Minister Bhoir informed the House that the founder of the madarasa has been granted anticipatory bail in the case.

MLA Anup Agarwal alleged that the madarasa enjoys support from certain political parties, while MLA Rajesh Padvi claimed that it had encroached on tribal land. Minister Bhoir assured that an inquiry would be conducted and action taken against all those involved.

Whether foreign nationals are living illegally in madarasas will also be investigated !

MLA Gopichand Padalkar demanded an inquiry into whether foreign nationals are illegally residing in madarasas across the state. Minister Pankaj Bhoir assured the Assembly that the government will conduct a probe into all such madarasas.

Editorial Perspective

Is this foreign funding being used to spread radicalisation under the guise of religious education ? Will the so-called secular lobby now raise its voice, or remain silent as always ?