New Delhi — In the aftermath of a Union Home Ministry advisory cautioning against attempts at radicalisation amid the ongoing conflict in Iran, India’s Intelligence Bureau has flagged a parallel threat: the emergence of fraudulent charity networks operating under the guise of humanitarian aid.
According to officials, multiple groups have begun collecting donations, claiming to support civilians affected by the war. These appeals, authorities say, are framed as urgent relief efforts, often invoking distressing images and narratives to solicit funds from the public.
“These elements are collecting funds on the pretext of welfare for people affected by the war,” an official said, noting that such campaigns have appeared rapidly in recent weeks.
Familiar Patterns From Past Conflicts
Investigators say the pattern is not new. Similar schemes were observed during the outbreak of violence between Israel and Palestine last year, when informal charities emerged to collect funds and then vanished once contributions were secured.
Officials describe a recurring model: emotionally charged appeals, often accompanied by digitally altered images, followed by the rapid disappearance of the collectors. The approach relies heavily on urgency and sentiment, creating pressure for immediate giving without verification.
“There are a good number of people who donate money and even give out gold after becoming emotional,” an Intelligence Bureau official said.
Authorities note that these operations are not limited to digital platforms. In many cases, individuals approach potential donors directly, reinforcing the perception of legitimacy through personal interaction.
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Networks, Targeting and Local Concentration
The scale of the activity appears to be most pronounced in Jammu and Kashmir, where officials estimate that the scam has reached approximately ₹16 crore. Investigators say some individuals have parted with significant portions of their savings, while others have contributed valuables, including gold and household items.
Authorities believe that the networks involved may have links to groups that previously raised funds for separatist activities prior to the abrogation of Article 370. In Kashmir, officials say, the same or similar networks have resurfaced, now using the Iran conflict as a pretext.
The campaigns are said to target specific communities, particularly Shia Muslims, whom officials describe as more emotionally affected by developments in Iran and therefore more susceptible to such appeals.
“These persons make emotional and religious appeals to lure vulnerable people,” an official said, adding that many donors do not seek accountability once persuaded.
Offline Operations and Uncertain End Use
A notable feature of the current operations is their largely offline nature. Authorities say the groups avoid digital transactions, opting instead for door-to-door collections to reduce the risk of detection and tracking. Donors are often issued receipts and told that the funds will be transferred to Iran for relief efforts. However, officials say there is little evidence to support such claims.
Investigators are also examining the potential use of the collected funds. While some may be diverted for personal gain, officials warn that a portion could be used to support anti-national activities. In Jammu and Kashmir, agencies say there are indications that the funds may be linked to attempts to revive separatist movements.
The Intelligence Bureau and other agencies are continuing to monitor the spread of such activities across the country. While cases have been identified in multiple regions, officials say the concentration and scale remain highest in Jammu and Kashmir, where the intersection of geopolitical events and local sensitivities has created fertile ground for exploitation.
