Srinagar/New Delhi, Mar 11 –The Government of India has banned the Awami Action Committee (AAC), led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, and the Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), headed by Masroor Abbas Ansari, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, for five years, arguing that these organisations allegedly encourage armed resistance in Kashmir.
In two separate notifications, the Home Ministry cited the organizations' alleged involvement in activities that threaten India's sovereignty, integrity, and security.
According to the notification, the GOI stated that AAC members have supported militancy, propagated anti-India narratives, and mobilized funds for secessionist movements in Jammu and Kashmir.
The government also accused the groups of inciting violence, promoting disaffection against the Indian state, and encouraging armed resistance.
The ministry listed multiple criminal cases against AAC and its leaders, including charges of sedition, unlawful assembly, and incitement of violence. “Cases have been registered at various police stations in Srinagar, including Nowhatta, Safakadal, and Kothi Bagh, against Umar Farooq and other AAC members for delivering speeches against the Indian government, promoting election boycotts, and instigating protests.”
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also filed a chargesheet against AAC spokesperson Aftab Ahmad Shah and others for their alleged involvement in anti-India activities.
Invoking Section 3 of the UAPA, the government imposed a five-year ban on AAC, effective immediately. The notification stated that the ban is necessary to prevent the group from further engaging in activities detrimental to national security.
This move follows a broader crackdown on organizations accused of fostering separatism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.
(KNO)