ED Raids on Waqf Land Encroachment in Ahmedabad: Crores in Benami Properties Under Investigation

In a major crackdown, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at 10 locations in Ahmedabad and Kheda, including the residence of notorious local builder Saleem Jumma Khan Pathan, for illegally occupying and profiting from Waqf Board land. The operation is linked to a massive encroachment scandal involving crores of rupees in benami assets and illegal rental collections.

Fraudulently Occupying Waqf Property for Commercial Gains

The land in question, originally leased by the Gujarat Waqf Board to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) for public use — including schools — was illegally seized by Saleem Pathan and his associates. Despite having no legal trustee status, they built unauthorized shops, flats, and commercial offices, collecting rent from over 100 tenants.

These individuals posed as trustees to siphon off revenue. Properties meant for schools were demolished, and in their place, shops were rented out for ₹7,000–₹8,000 per unit, with no records of deposit in the Waqf Board or AMC accounts.

Misuse of Donations and Charitable Property

Investigations revealed the misuse of Shah Bada Kasim Trust’s donation box income, which reportedly generated over ₹50,000 monthly. Saleem Pathan also established his own office, Saudagar Constructions, in one of the illegally constructed properties.

Massive Real Estate Fraud Exposed

Further findings show the construction of two illegal six-story buildings and the leasing of 200 flats and 25–30 shops on Waqf land without legal authority. The estimated revenue generated runs into crores of rupees, all pocketed without benefit to the Waqf or intended community.

Police Case and Legal Action Underway

The Gaekwad Haveli Police have registered cases against Saleem Pathan, Mohammad Yasir Sheikh, Mehmood Khan Pathan, Faiz Mohammad Jobdar, and Shahid Ahmed Sheikh under various IPC sections including fraud, rioting, and criminal conspiracy. A fake affidavit submitted to the Waqf Board in 2024 to falsely claim trusteeship has also come under scrutiny.

A Larger Scam Under ED Scanner

This case is now being probed not just as a local land grab but as a larger money laundering and benami property racket. Sources indicate that more properties linked to Waqf land misuse may soon face similar action.