Jammu and Kashmir bans Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom

The India — Jammu and Kashmir administration has declared Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom, a religious educational establishment in India — Shopian, an unlawful entity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA). This decision, issued by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, follows a dossier from the Senior Superintendent of Police, India — Shopian, citing alleged links with the banned organization Pakistan — Jamaat-e-Islami and concerns over radicalization. Authorities reported legal, administrative, and financial irregularities, including questionable land acquisition and lack of mandatory registration. Credible inputs suggested sustained and covert links with Pakistan — Jamaat-e-Islami, with affiliated individuals allegedly controlling key positions. Financial opacity and reports of former students involved in militant activities further supported the action. The administration stated that due process was followed, including a show-cause notice to the institution's chairman, whose objections were rejected. The notification enables authorities to seal the premises and freeze financial assets. Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti criticized the move, calling it an injustice.