barCreated with sketchtool.
Under UAPA, government bans two separatist groups, including Mirwaiz Umar Farooq-led AAC
Mar 12, 2025 03:18 pm
By
infodivyadelhi


Divya Delhi:  The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act to prevent separatist activities in the state. The organizations' alleged incitement to violence and anti-nationalism prompted this five-year ban. Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the ban on Tuesday, saying both groups threatened India's unity and integrity. Shah posted on X that these organizations have been inciting individuals, which might lead to law and order. “The Modi government will not tolerate any activities that undermine our nation's peace and sovereignty.” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq resumed public activities, meeting with Delhi politicians about the Wakf law. After meeting with JPC head in Delhi, Mirwaiz received CRPF security cover years after JK abolished Article 370. Recent events raised questions regarding Mirwaiz Umar Farooq's reconciliation with the federal government. The prohibition has placed a shadow over these developments, raising worries about Farooq's regional politics future. The MHA provided detailed evidence of both parties threatening India's sovereignty and security in its notifications. The AAC was accused of funding secessionist groups, promoting anti-India sentiments, and supporting terrorism. Many Srinagar police stations have filed sedition and incitement of violence cases against the organization. JKIM, led by Masroor Abbas Ansari, has also promoted separatism and conflict. The authorities warned that JKIM will promote anti-national sentiment and disrupt public order if uncontrolled. These prohibitions are part of a crackdown on Valley separatist and militant groups. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said that the Centre's ban on the AAC and JKIM would not quiet the truth. The separatist All Parties Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq preaches at Srinagar's Jamia Masjid, Kashmir's largest and most influential mosque. He remarked, “I strongly condemn the ban on the Awami Action Committee and its declaration as a ‘Unlawful Association.” He called the move a “continuation of the policy of intimidation and disempowerment that has been followed regarding JK since August 2019.” “The AAC, founded by Shaheed-e-Millat in 1964 during the holy relic (Moi Muqadas) agitation, has consistently advocated for JK's people's rights and aspirations through non-violent and democratic means and called for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir conflict through dialogue and deliberation. This has led to jail and martyrdom for its members. He claimed truth can be repressed by force but not silenced. According to former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, stifling dissent will increase tensions. “The MHA's ban on Mirwaiz's AAC and Masroor Ansari's JKIM is another blow to Kashmir's social and political landscape. Repressing dissent will worsen tensions.”