Intelligence Agencies Sound Alarm on Tablighi Jamaat’s Activities, Citing Visa Violations in Maharashtra

Indian intelligence agencies are expressing renewed concern about the activities of the Tablighi Jamaat, particularly regarding the alleged misuse of visas by foreign members. These individuals are suspected of using tourist, student, and medical visas for religious proselytization, which is against the terms of their visas. Intelligence reports indicate that foreign members are participating in religious activities, such as ‘Chilla’ (preaching tours), in several districts of Maharashtra. They are now operating in smaller groups and staying in private accommodations, like hotels and homes, to avoid drawing attention. Local supporters are handling their lodging, food, and transportation needs. The agencies are recommending heightened vigilance, especially during festivals like Ganpati, due to the potential impact of the activities of foreign nationals on social harmony. The central government implemented stricter visa regulations after the 2020 Nizamuddin Markaz controversy. These regulations strictly forbid religious preaching, participation in religious gatherings, or distributing religious literature under any visa category. Thousands of foreign nationals were previously blacklisted, and their entry into India was prohibited for a decade. There are also concerns about the Tablighi Jamaat’s financial transparency. Intelligence inputs have indicated potential Hawala funding, undisclosed foreign funds, and violations of FCRA laws. The CBI and ED are investigating the sources of these funds. In certain sensitive areas of Maharashtra, FIRs have been filed regarding the unauthorized construction of religious sites and unregistered gatherings, involving NGOs and trusts. Although the Tablighi Jamaat doesn’t promote violence, agencies are monitoring its activities due to concerns that some former members have joined terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS. A senior security official clarified that the focus of the surveillance is on violations of visa rules, not on religious activities. Foreign nationals found violating visa terms or engaging in unauthorized construction will face action under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and related laws.