Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Srinagar, Mar 11: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has imposed a five-year ban on two Jammu and Kashmir-based organisations—the Awami Action Committee (AAC) led by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq and the J&K Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (JKIM) led by Masroor Abbas Ansari—under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

The MHA, in its notification, stated that AAC members have been involved in supporting terrorism, propagating anti-India rhetoric, and mobilizing funds for separatist movements in the region. The government accused the organization of inciting violence, promoting disaffection against the Indian state, and encouraging armed resistance.

According to the government, several criminal cases, including those related to sedition, unlawful assembly, and incitement of violence, have been registered against AAC leaders, including Mirwaiz Umer Farooq. These cases are being investigated at multiple police stations in Srinagar, such as Nowhatta, Safakadal, and Kothi Bagh. Mirwaiz Umer Farooq has also been accused of delivering speeches against the Indian government, calling for election boycotts, and instigating protests.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has previously filed a chargesheet against AAC spokesperson Aftab Ahmad Shah and other members for alleged involvement in anti-national activities. The government stated that if not restrained, the AAC would continue to support militancy, disrupt public order, and fuel separatist movements in Jammu and Kashmir. Citing these concerns, the ban was enforced immediately under Section 3 of the UAPA to prevent the group from engaging in further activities detrimental to national security.

With this development, the government is expected to reassess the security cover of Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, who is currently under the protection of the CRPF.

Similarly, the MHA has also declared JKIM an unlawful association, citing its active support for terrorism, engagement in anti-India propaganda, and mobilization of funds for separatist activities. The government accused JKIM of inciting public unrest, advocating violence, and working against India's constitutional framework.

According to the MHA, JKIM’s continued existence would pose a threat to public order, promote anti-national sentiments, and challenge Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India. The ban, effective immediately, aims to prevent the organization from furthering its separatist agenda.
JKIM, originally founded by Molvi Abbas Ansari, is now headed by his son Masroor Abbas Ansari following his demise. Meanwhile, the AAC was founded in 1963 by Mirwaiz Moulana Farooq during the agitation for the recovery of holy relics. After his assassination, his son Mirwaiz Umer Farooq took over its leadership.

This action is part of a larger crackdown on groups accused of fostering separatism and militancy in Jammu and Kashmir.