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Changur Baba Case: Religious Conversion Charges, Bulldozer Action and ED Probe Shake Uttar Pradesh
A man once known for selling rings on a bicycle has now become the centre of a sensational legal and political storm. Changur Baba, born as Jamaluddin, is currently under investigation by multiple agencies in Uttar Pradesh, accused of running an illegal religious conversion racket, amassing illicit wealth, and engaging in activities deemed “anti-national” by the state.
Who is Changur Baba? From Ring Seller to Controversial ‘Spiritual Leader’
Changur Baba hails from Rehra Mafi village in the Balrampur district near the Indo-Nepal border. Born into poverty, he spent his early life begging and selling astrological rings and gems on a bicycle. Years later, he moved to Mumbai and reportedly reinvented himself as a religious preacher or ‘pir.’
Locals say he returned to his village with newfound influence and wealth. He even served two terms as the village head (Pradhan) from 2005–2010 and 2015–2020. A small religious centre near the Chand Auliya Dargah in the town of Utraula became his base, attracting followers from near and far.
Accusations of Mass Religious Conversions and Illegal Land Use
Changur Baba was arrested last week by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (ATS) on charges of operating a large-scale religious conversion racket. According to UP’s ADG (Law & Order) Amitabh Yash, the investigation is probing a “major network” involved in converting people under suspicious circumstances.
His close aide Neetu Rohra, also known as Nasreen, a Mumbai native, was arrested alongside him on July 5. Police claim Neetu converted to Islam after becoming a follower of Changur Baba and that she later moved to Utraula, where she began constructing a hospital.
The building, later demolished by local authorities, was said to be illegally constructed on government land. While the property was registered in Neetu Rohra’s name, authorities stated that Changur Baba’s family resided there, making it a key site in the ongoing investigation.
Police and ED Claim Foreign Funding and Money Laundering
Investigators allege that Changur Baba and his associates were part of a broader financial network. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a parallel investigation into possible foreign funding. According to police, more than 40 bank accounts were opened in the names of Changur Baba, his family, and several affiliated institutions. These accounts reportedly witnessed transactions worth nearly ₹100 crore.
“The origin of these funds is under scrutiny. We’re investigating links to international donors and institutions,” an ED official said on condition of anonymity.
Political Fallout: CM Yogi Adityanath Vows Stern Action
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken a strong stance on the matter. In multiple statements, he described the accused’s actions as “anti-national” and promised tough legal action.
“Our government is fully committed to protecting the dignity and safety of women and girls. The preliminary investigation reveals that the accused’s actions go beyond social disruption—they are against the nation,” CM Yogi said.
He further ordered the seizure of all properties linked to Changur Baba and his alleged network.
Conflict with Locals and Internal Disputes Lead to Breakthrough
Interestingly, the initial complaint came not from an outsider but from a close associate. A local man, Babbu Chaudhary, who was previously involved in the construction of the demolished building, reportedly had a financial dispute with Changur Baba. After the fallout, Babbu filed a complaint alleging forced religious conversions.
Sources reveal that this triggered a cascade of legal scrutiny, leading to multiple FIRs across districts including one at Devgaon Police Station in Azamgarh.
Locals React with Mixed Emotions
In Rehra Mafi, where Changur Baba’s transformation from beggar to powerful figure was closely observed, villagers are divided. Some question the source of his sudden wealth, while others express disbelief over the charges.
Local resident Phoolchand Pandey told reporters, “A few years ago, he was selling rings in the village. Suddenly, he became influential. We never saw anything suspicious here, but what happened elsewhere, we don’t know.”
Another local leader, village head Mansharam Yadav, confirmed that Changur Baba’s brother still begs for a living. “His rise was unusual, and his connections extended beyond the village,” he added.
Family Members Also Under Scrutiny
During the demolition of the Utraula property, only Changur Baba’s daughter-in-law, Sabira Mahboob, was present. She alleged harassment by police, stating that security forces broke CCTV cameras and detained her husband earlier.
“My children are scared. The house has been surrounded by police for a month now,” she told local reporters.
Earlier in April, Changur Baba’s son Mahboob and aide Naveen Rohra were also arrested. The couple, who had reportedly converted to Islam in Mumbai and relocated to Utraula, were constructing a medical facility which is now under scrutiny.
Legal Defense: “Matter Sub Judice, We’ll Fight Constitutionally”
Changur Baba’s legal team, led by advocate Mohammad Amir, insists the case is still under investigation and should not be prejudged.
“We will exercise all our constitutional rights. The matter is before the court, and our response will be strictly within the legal framework,” Amir said.
Final Word: A High-Stakes Case with Broader Implications
The Changur Baba saga touches on sensitive topics like religious freedom, communal harmony, political accountability, and the power of grassroots transformation. As the ATS, ED, and UP Police continue their investigations, the case is drawing national attention for its implications on governance, law enforcement, and social stability in India’s most populous state.
