Waqf Land Encroachment Probe covers 20 premises in Kolkata’s Topsia as Bengal’s commission investigates alleged illegal occupation of Waqf and government land linked to Javed Ahmed Khan.
By Qalam Times News Network
Kolkata, October 30, 2026
West Bengal’s Anti-Corruption Commission has carried out searches and inspections at 20 premises in Kolkata’s Topsia area as part of an investigation into alleged illegal land occupation, unauthorised construction and the suspected misuse of Waqf and government-owned properties. Some of the properties have reportedly been linked to Kasba MLA and former state minister Javed Ahmed Khan and members of his family.
The ongoing Waqf Land Encroachment Probe is being conducted by a commission headed by retired Justice Biswajit Basu. The investigation is examining allegations involving Waqf Board land, wetlands and properties belonging to the Public Works Department (PWD), Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) and Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA).
20 Premises Identified: 14 Initially Listed, Six More Added
According to commission sources, investigators initially identified 14 premises in the area corresponding to the former Ward 66 of Kolkata. Subsequently, local residents provided information about six additional locations, taking the total number of premises under scrutiny to 20.
The identified properties have reportedly been marked and videographed by the investigating team as part of the evidence-gathering process. Further notices may also be issued as the inquiry progresses.
The investigation is intended to establish whether land belonging to public authorities, the Waqf Board and designated wetlands was allegedly occupied or used for private residential and commercial developments without the necessary legal permissions.
Javed Ahmed Khan Denies Wrongdoing
Javed Ahmed Khan has rejected the allegations and denied ownership of the locations visited by commission officials. He maintained that he was neither involved in constructing buildings nor engaged in property development. Referring to his approximately 35 years in politics, Khan said that this was the first time he had faced such allegations. He acknowledged possessing ancestral property but denied purchasing any new property. He also expressed his willingness to have his ancestral assets investigated, while insisting that he should be given an opportunity to present his explanation. Khan reportedly questioned why the commission had not contacted him directly to seek clarification.
Waqf Properties and Government Land Under Investigation
A commission official clarified that the investigation was not directed against one individual but was intended to examine the alleged occupation and misuse of public and Waqf land.
The inquiry is particularly significant because Waqf properties are dedicated assets intended for religious, charitable and community welfare purposes. Their alleged unauthorised occupation or conversion into private commercial and residential projects raises serious questions about the protection of community-owned assets.
Two Unfinished Towers Also Under Scanner
The commission has also received complaints concerning two unfinished towers near Ritwik Ghatak Metro Station. Construction work on these buildings reportedly stopped after allegations emerged that they had been developed without the necessary approvals. The commission is examining the complaints as part of its wider investigation into alleged unauthorised construction and land occupation in Topsia.
With 20 premises already identified and inspected, the investigation could expand if further evidence or complaints emerge. The commission is expected to examine land ownership documents, Waqf records, construction permissions and relevant municipal and government records to determine whether any violations took place. The central questions remain whether any Waqf or government land was unlawfully occupied, who was responsible for the alleged violations and whether the properties connected to Javed Ahmed Khan or his family have any proven link to the irregularities. No final finding of guilt against Khan has been established, and he has denied wrongdoing. The outcome of the investigation will be important for determining the extent of alleged land encroachment in Topsia and the accountability of those responsible for protecting Waqf and public properties.
