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Illegal Madrassa Linked to UK-Based Preacher Demolished in Sant Kabir Nagar
Authorities began demolishing an alleged illegal madrassa in Khalilabad, Sant Kabir Nagar, tied to UK-based preacher Maulana Shamshul Huda Khan. The move followed the dismissal of an appeal against the demolition notice, after investigations by security and investigative agencies alleging illegal funding and possible terror links.
Why It Matters
The case underscores concerns about foreign funding and suspected radical links tied to religious facilities, and shows how local authorities pursue demolition and investigations in such contexts.
Timeline
2 Events
Demolition of the madrassa begins under tight security
April 26, 2026
Demolition work at the madrassa in Meat Mandi area, Khalilabad town, Sant Kabir Nagar district, started with tight security. The madrassa is linked to Maulana Shamshul Huda Khan, who acquired British citizenship in 2013. Officials said the land had recently been merged with government land and the building plan had not been approved. An FIR was registered at Khalilabad police station, and multiple agencies including the Anti-Terrorism Squad and the Enforcement Directorate conducted investigations into Khan. He is alleged to have funded madrassas via his NGO Raja Foundation and through his personal bank accounts. He has reportedly visited Pakistan and is alleged to be a member of the Pakistani radical organisation Dawat E Islami; at least three FIRs have been registered against him for fraud, forgery, and criminal conspiracy. A case related to the demolition order was pending before the commissioner's court, but the appeal dismissal left no pending case in this connection, according to SDM Hriday Ram Tiwari.
Appeal against demolition notice dismissed
April 25, 2026
The madrassa committee's appeal against the demolition notice was dismissed the day before the demolition work began. The article states the appeal was filed against the demolition notice and that its dismissal occurred on Saturday, April 25, 2026.