Azam Khan, Jauhar Trust Named in Fresh FIR Over Alleged Misuse of Government Funds

The case was registered on October 13 after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) shared information that it has been investigating suspected financial irregularities linked to the university. The allegations include fraud, criminal conspiracy and corruption.

The FIR invokes Sections 61, 316(5) and 318(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), along with Sections 7, 13(1)(d) and 13(2) of the Prevention of Corruption Act. Officials said the ED shared information with the Uttar Pradesh Police under Section 66(2) of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The police will investigate the allegations outlined by the central agency.

According to the ED, the estimated construction cost of buildings on the Jauhar University campus stands at approximately Rs 494.46 crore. However, the income tax returns filed by the Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar Trust reportedly show capital expenditure of Rs 78.32 crore between the financial years 2013-14 and 2024-25.

The agency has flagged a discrepancy of around Rs 416.14 crore between the estimated construction cost and the expenditure reflected in the Trust’s returns.

The ED has alleged that funds and construction materials allocated for government projects were diverted for use on the university campus.

Its complaint reportedly refers to construction work involving contractors worth approximately Rs 55.8 crore, government projects valued at Rs 23.41 crore, and works linked to MLA and Legislative Council Area Development Funds amounting to Rs 6.60 crore. Together, these items account for around Rs 85.81 crore.

The agency has also raised questions about the authenticity of certain donations received by the Trust. According to officials, investigators suspect that some funds may have been routed through contractors and subsequently recorded as donations.

The investigation has examined statements from individuals concerned and documents relating to the alleged use of public funds and construction materials.

Officials said the police investigation would examine the alleged roles of Azam Khan, the Trust, contractors and other individuals.

Further details are awaited. The allegations are subject to investigation.