ED Raids 25 Locations Linked to Al-Falah University in Delhi Blast Probe
In a significant development regarding the investigation of the Delhi blast, the Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on Monday at 25 locations associated with Al-Falah University, which is based in Haryana. The searches included the university’s office in Okhla, Delhi, as well as its main campus, spanning 70 acres in Faridabad.
These raids were prompted by a Central government order for a forensic audit of the university’s funding. This follows the discovery that three doctors employed at the institution are linked to the blast case. The Economic Offences Wing of the Delhi Police is also conducting parallel investigations into the university’s finances and operations.
Al-Falah University is currently facing two criminal cases prompted by concerns raised by both the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) regarding discrepancies in its accreditation status. The charges in these cases include cheating and forgery.
As a result, the Association of Indian Universities has suspended Al-Falah University’s membership, citing that it “does not appear to be in good standing.” Established in 2014, this private university, managed by the Al-Falah Charitable Trust, offers programs in medicine, engineering, computer science, education, and the humanities.
The university gained notoriety following the discovery of over 2,900 kg of explosives in rented accommodations linked to Muzammil, a doctor affiliated with the university’s medical college. Additionally, another doctor, Dr. Shaheen, was arrested after assault rifles and live ammunition were found in her vehicle. Shortly thereafter, a car explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort resulted in 13 fatalities and injuries to over 20 individuals. The driver of this car, Dr. Umar, was also employed by Al-Falah University.
Despite the mounting evidence, the university has denied any connections to the accused beyond their official roles. Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Bhupinder Kaur Anand issued a statement condemning the situation, calling the allegations “baseless and misleading.” She emphasized, “The university has no connection with these individuals, except for their professional roles. We strongly condemn any attempt to tarnish the university’s reputation.”
Meanwhile, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is exploring the potential terror angle, while the Enforcement Directorate is investigating financial transactions and foreign funding. Additional arrests and forensic audits are anticipated in the weeks to come.
