Waqf Whistleblower Attacked: Exposing Rs 1200 Crore Land Scam in Pune
In a shocking incident, Saleem Mulla, a prominent waqf rights activist, was physically assaulted while exposing a massive land scam in Pune. The attack has raised serious concerns about the safety of whistleblowers in India.
WhistleblowerWaqf Land ScamReal Estate FraudMaharashtraSaleem MullaReal Estate MaharashtraJul 25, 2025
Unidentified men entered the meeting hall and reportedly assaulted Mulla in full view of officials and board members. The assailants managed to escape even as security at the premises failed to intervene promptly.
Mulla, who heads the Maharashtra Waqf Liberation and Protection Task Force, has been at the forefront of exposing alleged corruption, encroachments, and illegal transactions involving waqf properties across the state.
Multiple High-Profile Scams Exposed
Over the past several years, Mulla has filed public interest litigations and submitted legal complaints related to:
The Alamgir Masjid Waqf Scam, with an estimated fraud value exceeding ₹5,000 crore
The Udan Shah Wali Dargah Land Scam in Baner, involving waqf land worth ₹1,200 crore
Real estate fraud in Pune’s Baner and Kondhwa areas using fake trusts
Bogus tenancy conversions and illegal lease transactions across dargahs and mosques in Maharashtra
“Organised Crime Behind the Attack,” Says Former Tax Official
Condemning the attack, former Chief Commissioner of Income Tax Akramul Jabbar Khan said, “Saleem Mulla’s life is in serious danger. He is being targeted by a well-connected land mafia that has infiltrated sections of the Waqf Board and state machinery. This isn’t a localised issue—it’s a pan-Maharashtra crime racket operating under the guise of community service.”
Khan demanded urgent measures including:
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a senior IPS officer
Z+ category or equivalent armed protection for Mulla
Issuance of a personal firearm license under Section 13 of the Arms Act, 1959
Legal Community Raises Alarm Over Waqf Land Crimes
Senior lawyers and former judges have echoed the need for robust institutional intervention. “Waqf-related land fraud has turned into a form of organised economic crime. What’s being looted are properties meant for the welfare of orphans, widows, and religious education,” said a retired Bombay High Court judge who has presided over waqf-related cases.
According to Mulla’s estimates, over ₹20,000 crore worth of waqf assets in Maharashtra have either been sold, encroached upon, or mortgaged through fraudulent means—with the alleged involvement of board members, advocates, and land registration officials.
Mulla’s Legal Campaign and Public Work
Based in Pune, Saleem Mulla has led the Waqf Liberation and Protection Task Force since 2017.
His contributions include:
Filing PILs against unauthorised waqf land sales
Advocating for CBI and ED probes in multiple land scam cases in Pune, Aurangabad, and Mumbai
Launching India’s first Waqf Liaison Centre to spread legal literacy
Running free legal clinics and community kitchens in Pune’s Kondhwa area
Despite multiple threats in the past, Mulla has continued his advocacy, often working pro bono for affected families and community organisations.
FIR Filed, MCOCA Invoked
Following the attack, Mulla has lodged an FIR under IPC Sections 307 (attempt to murder), 147 (rioting), 120B (criminal conspiracy), and relevant provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA).
His legal team is reportedly preparing to move the Bombay High Court with a plea for:
A court-monitored investigation
Deployment of central paramilitary protection
Suo motu contempt action against officials who fail to protect whistleblowers
Civil Society Mobilises for Justice
The incident has triggered statewide outrage. Civil society groups, legal associations, and youth organisations have announced protests and online campaigns demanding justice for Mulla.
“We will not remain silent while courageous citizens are targeted for exposing corruption,” said a spokesperson from the National Forum for Waqf Accountability.
As outrage grows, the spotlight is once again on the opaque functioning of Waqf Boards in India and the urgent need for institutional reforms, transparency, and whistleblower protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Saleem Mulla?
Saleem Mulla is a prominent waqf rights activist and legal crusader who heads the Maharashtra Waqf Liberation and Protection Task Force. He has been at the forefront of exposing large-scale waqf property scams in Maharashtra.
What is the waqf property scam?
The waqf property scam involves the illegal sale, encroachment, and mortgage of properties meant for religious and community welfare. Mulla has exposed several high-profile cases, including the Udan Shah Wali Dargah Land Scam in Baner, involving waqf land worth ₹1,200 crore.
What actions has Saleem Mulla taken?
Mulla has filed public interest litigations, submitted legal complaints, and advocated for CBI and ED probes in multiple land scam cases. He has also launched India’s first Waqf Liaison Centre and runs free legal clinics and community kitchens.
What is the role of the Maharashtra Waqf Board?
The Maharashtra Waqf Board is responsible for managing and protecting waqf properties in the state. However, it has been accused of corruption and complicity in waqf property scams.
What measures have been demanded for Saleem Mulla's protection?
Former Chief Commissioner of Income Tax Akramul Jabbar Khan has demanded a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a senior IPS officer, Z+ category or equivalent armed protection for Mulla, and the issuance of a personal firearm license under Section 13 of the Arms Act, 1959.
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