Bilal Bhat
Srinagar: Fresh controversy has erupted around Ghulam Rasool Hami, president of Karwan-i-Islami, after Kashmiri Pandit academic Dr Sandeep Mawa once again levelled serious allegations of financial impropriety and immoral conduct, claims that have triggered renewed public debate and demands for accountability.
Dr Mawa has released what he claims are audio recordings allegedly implicating Hami in adulterous relationships and misuse of influence, allegations which Hami has consistently denied in the past. The recordings, according to Mawa, form part of a larger body of material which he describes as “documentary proof” of misconduct by a person holding religious authority.
Seeking verification, Awami Reporter conducted an independent sting operation, during which it spoke to a person identified as the father-in-law of a woman allegedly linked to the controversy. During the conversation, the individual made what Awami Reporter describes as disturbing and unexpected claims, alleging oppression, manipulation and misuse of power by Hami within his own family circle. Awami Reporter has preserved the recordings of this interaction but is withholding portions in public interest and for legal reasons.
Further, multiple individuals claiming to be victims told Awami Reporter that they faced threats, intimidation and even physical attacks after earlier attempts to raise questions about Hami’s conduct several years ago. One such individual, speaking on condition of anonymity, appealed to the public to “boycott what he called an imposter using religious platforms to exploit people, particularly women, and to allegedly siphon money under the cover of faith.”
“This is not about religion. This is about power, fear and silence,” the anonymous source said, adding that many victims chose not to come forward due to social stigma and fear of retaliation.
Dr Sandeep Mawa, speaking to Awami Reporter, said he stands by his allegations and described them as “gospel truth.” “I will not stop. These are not rumours; these are facts backed by recordings, witnesses and years of suffering. The public deserves to know who they are following,” he said, vowing to take the matter to its logical conclusion.
Karwan-i-Islami, founded in 2004 and headed by Hami as its president and secretary general, is a prominent Barelvi religious organisation in Kashmir with a wide following. The organisation has previously been vocal on social and political issues, including campaigns against liquor and criticism of government policies, and has itself accused government departments of corruption in the past.
Awami Reporter attempted to seek a response from Ghulam Rasool Hami regarding the fresh allegations and the sting claims; however, no response was received till the filing of this report. The organisation’s position will be carried in full as and when received.
As the allegations resurface, civil society voices are demanding that law enforcement and judicial authorities take cognisance of the claims, examine the recordings independently, and ensure that religious institutions are not misused as shields against scrutiny.
This story will be updated as more official responses and verifications emerge.
