Massive Land Grab Scandal: Mafia Don Atiq Ahmed's Family Illegally Seized Waqf Properties Worth ₹71 Crore

A major revelation has rocked Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj as an investigation exposed that notorious mafia figure Atiq Ahmed and his family were deeply involved in illegally occupying Waqf properties. Findings from an inquiry conducted by the Sunni Central Waqf Board and the Prayagraj Commissioner reveal that Atiq’s family unlawfully seized assets valued at nearly ₹71 crore.

According to reports published by NDTV, the mafia don’s network extended its grip over shops, houses, and even multi-story buildings built on Waqf lands. This revelation sheds light on the extent of illegal activities undertaken by Atiq Ahmed’s family over several years.

Selling Even the Soil for Profit

One of the most shocking details uncovered is that Atiq Ahmed’s associates went so far as to excavate and sell soil from the Waqf lands, causing significant financial losses to the government. Investigators also found that Syed Mohammad Ashiyam, the then-caretaker (Mutawalli) of the Waqf properties, played a critical role by aiding Atiq’s family in their illegal activities in exchange for bribes. Ashiyam was eventually removed from his position, and a new caretaker was appointed.

The most alarming case surfaced on the GT Road, where Atiq’s network first seized Waqf land. They constructed nine shops and a large house on this site. The land was allegedly grabbed by Mohammad Tariq, identified as the brother-in-law of Atiq’s brother, Ashraf. The current value of this seized land is estimated between ₹2 crore to ₹3 crore.

A Widespread Web of Illegal Occupations

Further investigations revealed that around ₹20 crore worth of additional Waqf properties in the same region were also illegally occupied. Individuals such as Mohammad Zaid, Hamza, Manshood, Ahmed, Shibli, and Abdullah— all reportedly linked to Ashraf’s family or close relatives— were found responsible for these encroachments.

These individuals didn’t merely seize the land; they carried out unauthorized construction projects, adding to the magnitude of the violation. Multiple illegal structures were erected, with little regard for regulations or ownership rights.

GT Road: The Epicenter of Illegal Constructions

The largest seizure occurred along GT Road, where Waqf lands worth nearly ₹30 crore were captured, and unauthorized multi-story buildings were built. Among those involved were Mohammad Sabir, popularly known as "Chhote Chappal Wale," along with Obaid Ullah, Suhail Ahmed, and several others. All have direct ties to Atiq Ahmed or his brother Ashraf.

The Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) has since intervened, demolishing at least one of these illegally constructed buildings. However, the scale of encroachment indicates that substantial efforts will be needed to reclaim and restore the illegally occupied Waqf properties.

A Broader Pattern of Abuse

This latest exposure not only highlights the deep-rooted corruption associated with Atiq Ahmed’s family but also raises serious questions about the oversight and governance of Waqf assets in the region. The collusion between public officials and criminal networks allowed this large-scale land grab to happen over years without significant resistance.

Authorities have vowed to take strict action against all individuals involved and are considering further demolitions of illegal structures to recover the seized properties.

What’s Next?

As investigations deepen, more revelations are expected regarding the extent of Atiq Ahmed’s family’s illegal activities. Law enforcement agencies are under pressure to ensure that those responsible are held accountable, and that Waqf properties are protected from future exploitation.

This scandal serves as a stark reminder of how criminal elements can infiltrate and manipulate institutions for personal gain — and why stricter oversight mechanisms are urgently needed.