Waqf Board removes Arif Ali Farooqui from post following complaints of obscene late-night calls and pressure for friendship and halala

Raipur Misconduct Case

The Waqf Board has dismissed the city Qazi of Raipur, Arif Ali Farooqui, from his position after serious allegations of misconduct surfaced. Officials acted swiftly following complaints that he made obscene phone calls to women at odd hours, including around 1 am, and pressured them for friendship.

According to reports, Farooqui, associated with the Madrasa Islahul Muslemin Yatimkhana in Baijnathpara, allegedly told one woman he would facilitate her divorce and then insisted on her involvement in halala. A woman complainant informed her family members, who then lodged a formal complaint with the Waqf Board.

Late-Night Calls Spark Outrage

The allegations point to a pattern of behaviour that shocked the local community. Sources indicated that Farooqui would call women late at night, engage in lewd conversations, and exert pressure for personal friendship. The matter came to light when the affected woman shared details with her relatives, leading to the complaint.

Ulema and community leaders described the actions as a serious breach of the dignity of the responsible post. The incident triggered widespread anger among members of the society, who viewed it as tarnishing the image of religious authority.

Emergency Meeting Leads to Dismissal

On March 31, 2026, prominent ulema and imams of Raipur convened an emergency meeting to discuss the complaint. Key figures including Qari Imran, Abdul Razzaq, Zaheer Rahbar, Abad Ali, and Ashraf Ali attended the gathering.

After detailed deliberations on the facts presented, the meeting passed a unanimous resolution. The decision resulted in the immediate removal of Arif Ali Farooqui from the position of city Qazi. Community leaders emphasised that such conduct undermines the sanctity of religious positions and erodes public trust.

Previous Allegations Surface

This is not the first time Farooqui has faced controversy. In October 2023, he was accused of assaulting a minor boy at the same madrasa over a missing headphone. The boy, a resident from Ramanujganj, reportedly suffered beating in the incident. Though the matter created a stir at the time, no strong action was taken then, according to local reports.

The recurrence of issues has now prompted stronger measures from the Waqf Board and community elders.

Community Reaction and Concerns

Ulema described the episode as damaging to the prestige of the Qazi's office. Several community members expressed outrage, stating that individuals in such positions must uphold high moral standards. The case has sparked discussions on accountability within religious institutions.

Local sources indicated growing demands for further police investigation into the complaints. Many view the dismissal as a necessary first step to restore confidence in community leadership.

Impact on Local Institutions

The development has drawn attention to oversight mechanisms in Waqf Board-managed institutions. It highlights the need for stricter protocols regarding the conduct of religious functionaries who interact with the public, especially vulnerable groups.

Women in the community have voiced concerns over personal safety and privacy, particularly regarding unsolicited late-night communications. The episode has also raised questions about the selection and monitoring processes for sensitive religious roles.

What Lies Ahead

With Farooqui's removal, the Waqf Board is expected to initiate the process for appointing a new city Qazi. Meanwhile, calls for a formal police probe into the allegations continue to gain momentum. Community leaders have urged maintaining calm while ensuring justice.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in positions of religious and social responsibility. Authorities are likely to monitor the situation closely to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As per latest updates, no official comment from Farooqui was immediately available. The Waqf Board has confirmed the dismissal through its internal processes.

This case has emerged as a significant local development, reflecting ongoing efforts to address grievances within minority institutions in Chhattisgarh.