New Delhi, October 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in New Delhi on Saturday ordered the commencement of trial against separatist leader Yasin Malik and six others in a money laundering case involving alleged foreign funding from Pakistan through hawala channels.
The case concerns alleged proceeds of crime worth ₹8.94 crore, which the Enforcement Directorate (ED) claims were generated through illegal financial transactions linked to separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the allegations, the accused received funds originating from Pakistan through hawala networks and other channels. The money was allegedly used to finance separatist activities and related unlawful operations in the Union Territory.
The ED initiated its investigation based on an FIR registered by the NIA in 2017. The NIA had registered the case under relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
The ED subsequently investigated the suspected financial transactions, examining the movement of funds and the alleged proceeds of crime.
The court had framed charges in the case last month, paving the way for the trial. Saturday’s order marks the next stage of the proceedings, during which the prosecution will be required to present evidence supporting its allegations.
The case forms part of a broader investigation into alleged financial networks used to channel funds from Pakistan into Jammu and Kashmir to support separatist activities.
During the trial, the prosecution is expected to rely on documentary evidence, financial records and other material gathered during the investigation to establish the alleged funding network, trace the source of the money and determine the roles attributed to the accused.
The allegations against the accused have yet to be established in court. The commencement of the trial does not amount to a finding of guilt, and the accused will have the opportunity to contest the charges during the proceedings.
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