On December 12, 2024, at around 2:30 a.m., the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) targeted the house of Mufti Khalid Ansari Nadvi in Jhansi’s Super Colony. They conducted the raid as part of an ongoing investigation into foreign funding and money laundering activities. Authorities linked Mufti Khalid Ansari Nadvi to allegations of spreading terrorist propaganda and maintaining ties with Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Authorities Seize Documents and Question Mufti Khalid Ansari Nadvi
The officers arrived at Nadvi’s home and conducted a thorough search. They seized various documents, including a passport, an old Saudi Arabian visa, and electronic devices. They also scrutinized books and materials they deemed suspicious. During questioning, they interrogated Nadvi about his foreign contacts, financial transactions, and alleged involvement in transferring money abroad. Nadvi denied all allegations, asserting that he had never engaged in illegal activities.
Nadvi explained his online teaching work, where he instructs Indian and NRI students in Quran and Urdu. He charges fees ranging from 50 to 1,500 rupees. He dismissed claims of links to terrorist organizations and expressed frustration over the intrusion into his private life.
Supporters Surround Authorities and Escalate Tensions
After questioning Nadvi, the authorities attempted to transport him for further interrogation. News of his detention spread, and supporters, mobilized through mosque announcements, gathered in large numbers. The crowd, which included both men and women, surrounded police vehicles and demanded Nadvi’s release.
The NIA team tried reasoning with the mob, but tensions escalated. A group of approximately 200 people overpowered the authorities and freed Nadvi. The NIA attempted to disperse the crowd but failed to regain custody. The incident unfolded near Saleem Bagh Ali Gol Khirki in the Kotwali police jurisdiction, creating a significant law-and-order situation.
Peaceful Outcry and Allegations of Harassment
Mufti Sabir Ansari, the city Qazi and Nadvi’s uncle, defended Mufti Khalid Ansari Nadvi and described him as a respected teacher with over a decade of experience in online education. He criticized the NIA’s actions, claiming that the raid lacked justification and harassed his nephew without valid evidence.
Ansari called attention to Nadvi’s contributions as an educator, asserting that the authorities misrepresented his role. He demanded an explanation for Nadvi’s treatment, emphasizing his transparency regarding his teaching work.
Investigation Continues Amid Local Unrest Mufti Khalid Ansari Nadvi
Despite the chaos, the NIA continued its investigation into Nadvi’s activities. Authorities collected confiscated documents and electronic devices for analysis in Delhi. The investigation now focuses on suspected foreign funding and its potential links to radicalization and money laundering.
Local police and administration support the investigation, though tensions in the area remain high. The incident highlights the challenges of conducting sensitive operations involving individuals with community backing. The December 12 episode has sparked debates over the balance between national security and protecting individual rights.
While the authorities push forward with their investigation, the dramatic rescue by Nadvi’s peacefuls underscores the difficulties in managing such operations. The case remains active as the NIA delves deeper into the foreign funding angle, and local residents continue to rally behind Nadvi.