New Delhi: The Union Government banned two organisations in Jammu and Kashmir for five years on Tuesday, accusing them of spreading anti-India propaganda to encourage secessionism in the Union territory, Times of India reported.
The Union Minister of Home Affairs (MHA) declared the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) as unlawful associations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
The Centre alleged that AAC, led by Umar Farooq, had been involved in terrorist activities and spreading anti-India propaganda. The group is alleged to have indulged in activities that undermine India’s integrity, sovereignty and security. ACC allegedly mobilised funds for unlawful activities, supported separatists and showed disrespect to the Constitution. The group allegedly promoted secessionist ideas and instigated anti-national sentiments.
Further, the MHA said that there are several criminal cases registered against AAC members for making inflammatory speeches as well as supporting militant groups. Also, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and state police have registered multiple cases against the organisation under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
ANI reported that according to the Centre, JKIM and its members raised funds to facilitate unlawful activities such as separatist and terrorist operations in the Jammu and Kashmir region. The organisation is accused of promoting separatism by sparking public unrest, encouraging armed struggle against the state of India and spreading hatred against the government.
The ban on the groups was imposed under Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The government also exercised its powers under Section 3(3) of the Act to ensure the ban remains effective for five years from the date of the official notification.