The chairman of Al Falah group, Jawad Siddiqui, has been sent to Enforcement Directorate custody for 13 days in connection with a significant money laundering investigation linked to terror financing.
Midnight Court Proceedings
Siddiqui, who was arrested on Tuesday evening, faced an unusual late-night court session that extended into the early hours of Wednesday. The businessman was produced before Additional Sessions Judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan at her residence close to midnight, with the legal proceedings continuing until approximately 1 am.
Legal Framework and Investigation
The case represents a serious development in India's financial crime investigations. The Enforcement Directorate has taken Siddiqui into custody under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), with the investigation focusing on alleged terror-linked financial transactions.
Legal experts note that the 13-day custody period granted to the Enforcement Directorate suggests the investigation requires substantial interrogation and evidence collection. Such extended custody periods are typically granted when investigators demonstrate the need for sustained questioning to uncover complex financial trails.
Broader Implications
This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to combat financial crimes with potential national security implications. The timing and nature of the court proceedings indicate the urgency and sensitivity surrounding the investigation.
As the Enforcement Directorate continues its probe, financial crime specialists anticipate that this case could reveal important patterns in how illicit funds are moved through corporate structures. The investigation is being closely watched by both business and legal communities across India.
The developments in this case occurred on November 19, 2025, marking another significant step in India's ongoing battle against money laundering activities with potential connections to terrorism financing.