Illegal stay of foreign nationals at Nandurbar seminary under probe, passport verification to be tightened
Initial findings revealed substantial donations from both domestic and foreign sources into the institute's bank accounts.
3 min read
Anil Parab demanded the resignation of Maharashtra Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam, alleging that a dance bar in Kandivali was being operated under a licence held by his mother (Instagram/@iYogeshRKadam)The state government on Wednesday ordered an high-level inquiry into the illegal stay of two Yemeni nationals at a religious educational institute in Nandurbar district and announced stricter protocols for passport address verification across the state.
Minister of State for Home (rural) Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar informed the Assembly on Wednesday that a special investigation team, headed by a senior IPS officer, will probe the activities of Jamia Islamia Ishaatul Uloom in Akkalkuwa, after the discovery of foreign nationals residing there without valid documents.
“This is a serious national security concern. A criminal case has been registered, and the institute’s management will face strict action,” said Bhoyar, responding to a notice raised by MLA Devendra Kothe. MLAs Rajesh Padvi, Harish Pimpale, and Gopichand Padalkar also participated in the discussion.
Bhoyar added that irregularities were also found at As-Salam Hospital, run by the same trust, including illegal occupancy and administrative lapses. The state plans to recommend cancellation of its registration with the medical education department.
Initial findings revealed substantial donations from both domestic and foreign sources into the institute’s bank accounts.
Investigations into alleged land encroachments on tribal land and misuse of scholarship funds are also underway, with the state Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) involved in parallel probes, said the minister.
Current address to be verified for passports
In a related development, Minister of State for Home (urban) Yogesh Kadam said police verification for passport applications will now place greater emphasis on verifying the current residential address, especially for those displaced due to building redevelopment.
“The police will verify the applicant’s current place of residence as mentioned in the application. This is essential to confirm identity and check for any pending criminal records or summons,” Kadam told the House, replying to a notice by MLA Manisha Chaudhary. MLAs Amit Satam and Sunil Prabhu raised follow-up queries.
The minister clarified that in cases where applicants are temporarily relocated due to redevelopment, addresses mentioned in legal rent agreements would be accepted for verification. He added that the Centre’s updated protocols for police verification will be followed, with plans to integrate AI tools and digital passport apps to enhance transparency and ease of the process.
“Awareness will also be created to inform citizens that verification is carried out on the current address, not just the permanent one,” said Kadam.
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