The Intelligence Bureau has alerted security agencies about a massive charity donation scams where fraudulent groups are exploiting the ongoing Iran conflict. The group collects donations worth crores of rupees, with the highest concentration of such activities reported in Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir emerges as epicentre of charity donation scams
The Union Home Ministry had earlier issued an advisory about elements attempting radicalisation amid the war in Iran. Officials said the Intelligence Bureau has uncovered a network of fake charities operating across the country.
Multiple groups have emerged collecting funds under the guise of aiding war-affected Iranians. An official added that these elements exploit emotions by displaying digitally altered war photographs to solicit donations.
“We witnessed similar activity during the Israel-Palestine conflict last year. Such charities spring up during crises and vanish after collecting funds,” another official explained.
However, authorities have identified Jammu and Kashmir as the epicentre of this scam, where operatives have gone door-to-door seeking donations. Officials revealed the same network had previously collected funds for separatist groups before the abrogation of Article 370.
Shia community targeted as operatives amass Rs 16 crore in Kashmir alone
In Jammu and Kashmir alone, the scam has amassed approximately Rs 16 crore. Nationwide, the total collection runs into crores, with victims parting with life savings, gold, and even copper utensils.
Officials said the Shia community remains the primary target.
“Shia Muslims are more emotionally vulnerable to appeals concerning the war in Iran. They donate generously without demanding accountability,” an agency source noted.
Additionally, the operatives have deliberately kept their methods offline, avoiding digital platforms that could expose their activities. They visit homes, make emotional and religious appeals, show war images, and issue fake receipts promising to forward funds to Iran.
In Jammu and Kashmir, authorities warn that separatist elements may utilise these proceeds to revive the movement. Also, agencies are monitoring similar activities across other states, though the scale remains highest in the Kashmir Valley.
Meanwhile, in the United States, two San Diego-area men have admitted in court to running a fake charity that siphoned off millions of dollars. This is in concession proceeds intended to support youth softball at Petco Park and Snapdragon Stadium.