In Saharanpur, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has confiscated the assets of the Global University, which belonged to former BSP MLC Haji Iqbal, a figure embroiled in illicit mining and numerous scandals. Iqbal’s prominence in Uttar Pradesh peaked during Mayawati’s tenure from 2007 to 2012, surpassing even ministers and MLAs in influence. Through instilling fear among the populace, he erected the Global University across 121 acres in the Mirzapur region.
The construction of this institution saw Iqbal encroach upon ephemeral watercourses. Presently, the university’s valuation stands at approximately Rs 4,440 crore. Alongside unlawful mining, Haji Iqbal, also known as Bala, engaged in illicit financial activities, enriching himself through money laundering. Beyond his ties to the BSP, he wielded significant sway within the SP administration. He held the title of the principal mining baron of western UP. Despite authorities’ awareness, they hesitated to act against him, consequently elevating his stature over time.
During the BSP regime, Iqbal acquired a sugar mill at a notably low cost, circa 2010-2011, when nearly eleven sugar mills were sold at depreciated rates, resulting in losses exceeding one thousand crores for state and central governments. Additionally, he operated multiple sugar mills in Saharanpur, accruing substantial wealth from these ventures. However, his fortunes took a downturn in 2017 when law enforcement intensified scrutiny on him, his younger brother Mahmood Ali, four sons, and relatives.
In addition to his involvement in illicit mining, money laundering, and land usurpation, he faced severe accusations, including rape. The litany of charges against him continued to mount, with approximately forty cases presently lodged against him. Law enforcement designated him as a gang leader in their criminal records. While Mahmud Ali, his four sons, and several relatives were apprehended, Iqbal himself has evaded capture thus far.
In 2022, Saharanpur Police seized Iqbal’s properties worth approximately Rs 107 crore under the Gangster Act, valuing them at Rs 36.40 crore. Chief Minister Yogi recommended a CBI probe into the matter, prompting the agency to initiate an investigation. Subsequently, the ED filed money laundering charges against Iqbal.
In 2021, the Enforcement Directorate also pursued legal action against Haji Iqbal in connection with the sugar mill scandal, resulting in the confiscation of assets exceeding Rs. 1,000 crores. Namrata Marketing Pvt. Ltd. and Girish Company were under Iqbal’s control, through which he acquired sugar mills using various front companies. Furthermore, his family members participated in these transactions.
In 2022, Haji Iqbal and six associates were charged under the Gangster Act at the Mirzapur police station, following police action. Numerous cases against Iqbal were registered across Saharanpur. His sons Abdul Wahid and Javed faced twelve cases each, while his third son Afzal faced three, and his fourth son Alishan faced seven.
In 2023, authorities seized Iqbal’s mansion worth Rs 11 crores, demolishing several of his residences in Saharanpur. Additionally, his multi-crore university fell under seizure. According to the ED, Iqbal financed the university using proceeds from illicit mining. The former MLC remains at large, purportedly evading authorities in Dubai, while his four sons and brother are incarcerated.
The extensive crackdown on the university has jeopardized the futures of thousands of students. The ensuing period will determine whether the government assumes control of Global University’s administration or transfers its students to alternative institutions. Notably, the university absorbed significant funds from the NHRM scam.
Presently, Global University offers a myriad of courses including BBA, MBA, BCA, MCA, LLB, BAMS, BTech, MTech, BSc, and MSc. Moreover, its medical college provides courses such as B-Pharma, D-Pharma, M-Pharma, BA, MA, MBBS, and PhD. The student body comprises approximately four thousand individuals, encompassing both local and international students.
As per university administration, the institution employs around 700 personnel. Recently, an individual lodged a complaint at the Sadar police station, alleging issuance of fraudulent degrees to students enrolled at Global University.