UP ATS Arrests Key Financier of Alleged Conversion Racket in Nagpur Operation
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad made a significant arrest on Saturday. They captured Idul Islam in Nagpur's Ashinagar area. Islam is a close aide and alleged financier of Jamaluddin, also known as Chhangur Baba.
Months of Surveillance Lead to Early Morning Arrest
ATS sources revealed they conducted months of surveillance before the arrest. The team moved in during the early hours. They tracked Islam continuously as he arrived in Nagpur to cast his vote. Officers navigated narrow lanes in Ashinagar to apprehend the suspect.
An NIA court had already issued an arrest warrant for Islam. Investigators described him as Chhangur Baba's right-hand man in Maharashtra. They consider him a crucial link in expanding the alleged syndicate beyond Uttar Pradesh.
Solar Business Front for Illegal Operations
Idul Islam operated as a government contractor dealing in solar technology installations. Officials claim he used this legitimate business as a cover. His business travels across north India allegedly helped him discreetly channel funds for Baba's operations.
Even after Chhangur Baba shifted his base to Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur district, Islam remained in Nagpur. Investigators say he continued routing money through multiple transactions from Maharashtra.
Alleged Funding for Conversion Activities
These funds allegedly financed religious gatherings and conversion drives. The money also sustained the wider network of the alleged syndicate. Islam claimed the transfers were for legitimate business activity. However, investigators now consider these transactions central to establishing the financial backbone of the alleged conversion racket.
Political Influence and NGO Front
ATS sources claim Islam enjoyed considerable political influence in parts of Maharashtra. He allegedly ran an NGO that served as a front for facilitating illegal religious conversions. The 38-year-old is a named accused in a Lucknow FIR.
The charges against him include organized crime, illegal conversions, money laundering, and financial irregularities. The syndicate allegedly maintained over 40 bank accounts across India.
Expanding Operations and International Links
The alleged network expanded its operations to Maharashtra and Nepal-border regions. Members frequently traveled to Gulf countries. Suspicious foreign currency inflows from West Asia are under ED scrutiny.
These inflows are pegged at around Rs 100 crore. The Enforcement Directorate is tracing property acquisitions, benami deals, and international financial links of the conversion racket.
Bank Accounts and Financial Transactions
Investigators are examining Vostro accounts linked to co-accused Naveen Rohra through UAE-based banks. At least two bank accounts in the name of Neetu alias Nasreen allegedly received foreign remittances.
Naveen Rohra's accounts reportedly saw inward transfers of Rs 16.22 crore and Rs 18.66 crore through NEFT. Additional funds were routed via UAE exchange services.
Background of the Case
Chhangur Baba's palatial property in Utraula, Balrampur was demolished last year. The administration found it to be illegally constructed. The property was valued at over Rs 3 crore.
The ATS arrested Chhangur Baba and his associate Neetu from Balrampur on July 5, 2025. The Times of India first reported Chhangur Baba's connection to Idul Islam in Nagpur on July 14, 2025.
