In a major crackdown on illegal madrassas, the Kotwali police in Varanasi arrested an 85-year-old manager of an illegally operated madrassa, identified as Anis, on charges of embezzling government funds. The arrest took place on Wednesday, following a probe by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) that uncovered a systematic siphoning of funds through fake records uploaded on the madrassa portal.
Details of the Arrest
Anis, a resident of Jaunpur district, had been absconding after the SIT launched its investigation. The police had announced a cash reward of Rs 25,000 for any information leading to his arrest. According to Azamgarh Superintendent of Police Anil Kumar, the Kotwali police received a tip-off that Anis was spotted at the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) bus stand. Acting swiftly, the police apprehended him from the location.
Illegal Madrassa Operation
The SIT investigation revealed that the madrassa, named Madarsatul Nishan Niswan, located in Azamgarh, was operating illegally. It was listed on the madrassa portal with ID 191100693, but during a verification drive in 2024-24, a large number of madrassas were found to be functioning against prescribed norms. The SIT specifically identified this madrassa as being run without proper authorization.
The investigation further exposed that fake information regarding the building, the number of students, and other critical details had been uploaded on the madrassa portal. This fraudulent activity was part of a larger scheme to embezzle government funds and grants meant for legitimate educational institutions.
Legal Action Taken
Based on the findings of the SIT, a First Information Report (FIR) was lodged against Anis on charges of criminal breach of trust, cheating, and forgery. The police have launched a thorough investigation to uncover the full extent of the embezzlement and identify any other individuals involved in the scam.
The arrest of Anis marks a significant step in the state government's efforts to regulate madrassas and ensure that government funds are utilized for their intended purpose. The SIT continues to probe other madrassas that were found to be operating illegally during the verification drive.
Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information about similar illegal activities, emphasizing that strict action will be taken against those who exploit government schemes for personal gain.
