PFI’s Secret Operations in Gulf Countries and India Uncovered by Enforcement Directorate
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has revealed that the banned Popular Front of India (PFI) had over 13,000 active members in Singapore and Gulf countries like Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and UAE. These members were allegedly responsible for collecting funds. The PFI established District Executive Committees (DECs) for the Non-Resident Muslim diaspora in these regions, each tasked with raising several crores of rupees.
The funds collected abroad were reportedly transferred to India through complex banking and underground “hawala” channels to conceal their origins. These funds were then used by PFI and its leaders to support terrorist and unlawful activities. The Indian government banned PFI under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) on September 28, 2022, following the arrest of several leaders by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The ED’s investigation suggests that PFI’s true goals differ from its stated mission. While PFI claims to be a social movement, evidence indicates it aims to establish an Islamic movement in India through Jihad. Despite claiming non-violent protests, PFI’s methods are reportedly violent.
The ED also accused PFI of providing arms training disguised as Physical Education (PE) classes, teaching offensive and defensive maneuvers with weapons. These classes were held on properties registered under false names, as PFI owns no property in its name. A notable case was the Narath Arms Camp in 2013, where PFI trained members in explosives and weapons use, intending to incite religious enmity and prepare for terrorist activities.
Doubts Revealed
PFI -: PFI stands for Popular Front of India. It is an organization in India that claims to work for the rights of minorities but has been accused of being involved in unlawful activities.
Enforcement Directorate -: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) is a government agency in India responsible for enforcing economic laws and fighting financial crime. They investigate money laundering and illegal money transfers.
Gulf countries -: Gulf countries refer to the countries in the Middle East that are located around the Persian Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. These countries are known for their oil wealth.
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act -: The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is a law in India that aims to prevent illegal activities that threaten the country’s security and sovereignty. It allows the government to ban organizations involved in such activities.
Islamic movement -: An Islamic movement refers to a group or organization that aims to promote Islamic values and practices. In this context, it suggests that PFI wants to spread its version of Islam in India.
arms training -: Arms training means teaching people how to use weapons. In this case, it is alleged that PFI was secretly training people to use weapons while pretending to conduct regular Physical Education classes.
