ED Raids Jaipur Pastor Over Alleged Illegal Foreign Funding
· India · Hindustan Times, Indian Express
The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on Jaipur-based pastor Ravi Mohan Pahadiya on Friday regarding the alleged misuse of foreign funds. The agency claims Pahadiya, a missionary affiliated with Hope Ministry, received approximately ₹2.20 crore from US-based donor Thomas Eugene Lynch without required FCRA permissions. Investigators allege the funds were used for proselytisation and conversion activities among the SC-Valmiki and ST-Bhill communities in Jaipur and South Rajasthan. Further findings indicate that Pahadiya and his wife, Gunjan Sharma, allegedly received an additional ₹2.34 crore by misdeclaring the purpose of remittances as business and management consultancy. The agency stated that these funds were diverted for personal expenses, foreign travel, and property acquisitions.
Why it matters
The investigation highlights ongoing government scrutiny into the compliance of religious organisations with the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act. The case could lead to stricter regulatory oversight for entities receiving international donations for social or religious activities.
Read the original report — Hindustan Times
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