Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Feb 18: "For several years, I have been engaged in the licensed trade of sand and old vehicles while also being actively involved in religious and social activities. I have served as the General Secretary of Nandavar Mosque and as the president of the Sajipa Range Madrasa Management Association under the prestigious Samastha organization. Additionally, I have held various positions in numerous religious and social organizations. Currently, I am serving as the general secretary of Shamsul Ulama Education Trust (R), Nandavar," said Shafi Nandavar during a press conference.
He addressed allegations against him in connection with the death of businessman Mumtaz Ali, whose body was found in the Kulur river on October 6, 2024, in what was suspected to be a suicide. "In this case, Ayesha Rehmat was identified as the prime accused, but I was also implicated as one of the accused. Following this, I was subjected to false accusations and blackmail allegations on social media," he stated.
"I was in Bagalkot on business and was arrested by the police on October 8 while returning. However, I was not informed of the reason for my arrest. When I questioned the police, they mentioned that a case had been registered regarding Mumtaz Ali’s suicide, alleging that Ayesha Rehmat was used to blackmail him. In reality, I had no acquaintance with either Mumtaz Ali or Ayesha Rehmat. I had never met or called them, nor had I ever sent a message to anyone regarding this matter. I have always helped others and never taken anything from anyone. I can confidently say that I have never even had tea at someone else's expense. Yet, I was falsely accused of blackmailing for money, arrested, and kept in judicial custody for 100 days. Taking advantage of this, my detractors spread baseless propaganda on social media, and several platforms published false news without any evidence," he lamented.
"Even though I committed no crime, I was forced to visit police stations, endure imprisonment, and appear in court. During this time, my health deteriorated severely, and I struggled without money for medical treatment. The false allegations not only affected me but also brought shame upon my wife and four daughters. My children had to endure humiliation from their schoolmates, and my family lost the ability to walk with dignity in society. Though we are alive, it feels as if we are dead. The religious organization I was part of also faced unnecessary scrutiny. I still do not understand why such accusations were made against me despite my innocence. Even now, people look at me with suspicion," he said.
"The Karnataka high court granted an injunction in this case on February 12, 2025. However, I am still unable to live in peace. It is easy to falsely accuse and defame someone, but the suffering it brings is unimaginable. My family and I stand as living proof of this. Only when those who defame others face similar circumstances will they understand the agony we have endured. I have faith that justice will prevail through further investigation," he concluded.