Jammu, April 29 — Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have declared a seminary in Shopian district as an unlawful entity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing alleged links to militant activities. The decision follows claims that 17 former students of the institution joined terrorist groups and were later killed in separate encounters.
The order was issued by the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir based on inputs provided by local police, marking a significant administrative action in the region’s ongoing efforts to curb radicalisation.
Details of the Government Action
The seminary, Darul Uloom Jamia Sirajul Uloom, located in Imam Sahib area of Shopian, was declared unlawful after authorities reviewed a dossier submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Shopian.
According to officials, the dossier included evidence suggesting a pattern of alleged indoctrination and recruitment linked to the institution. The involvement of 17 former students in militant activities was cited as a key factor in the decision.
The order, issued on April 24, highlighted what authorities described as “credible inputs” indicating sustained and covert connections between the seminary and Jamaat-e-Islami, an organisation banned by the central government in 2019.
Allegations of Organisational Links
The official order stated that individuals affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami allegedly exercised de facto control over the institution. This reportedly included influence over administrative and academic roles within the seminary.
Authorities claimed that such control created an environment that facilitated radicalisation over time. The document further alleged that the institution’s internal ecosystem contributed to shaping extremist ideologies among certain students.
These findings formed the basis for invoking provisions under the UAPA, a law that allows the government to take action against organisations involved in unlawful or terrorist activities.
Response from the Seminary
The leadership of Darul Uloom Jamia Sirajul Uloom has strongly denied the allegations. Mohammad Shafi Lone, chairman of the institution, stated that the seminary has no links with Jamaat-e-Islami or any other banned organisation.
He emphasized that the institution is law-abiding and operates within the legal framework. According to Lone, the seminary currently has over 800 students and is affiliated with recognized educational bodies, including the Board of School Education and the Kashmir School Federation.
Lone also confirmed that the institution had received a show-cause notice from authorities in the previous month and had submitted a response addressing the concerns raised.
Call for Independent Investigation
In response to the government’s decision, Lone urged authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the allegations. He stated that if any wrongdoing is proven, the institution would support appropriate action.
The seminary’s leadership has maintained that the accusations are unfounded and has called for transparency in the inquiry process.
This response highlights a growing tension between administrative action and institutional defense, particularly in cases involving sensitive issues such as national security and education.
Understanding UAPA and Its Implications
The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act is India’s primary legislation for dealing with activities that threaten the sovereignty and integrity of the country. It allows the government to designate organisations as unlawful if they are found to be involved in or supporting terrorism.
Once an entity is declared unlawful, it faces restrictions on its operations, funding, and activities. The law also enables authorities to take enforcement actions against individuals associated with such organisations.
In this case, the declaration could have significant implications for the seminary’s functioning, including its ability to operate as an educational institution.
Context and Background
Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed long-standing security challenges, including concerns about radicalisation and militant recruitment. Educational and religious institutions have occasionally come under scrutiny in this context.
The ban on Jamaat-e-Islami in 2019 was part of broader efforts by the central government to curb organisations accused of supporting separatist or extremist activities.
Authorities have since intensified monitoring of institutions suspected of having links to such groups, leading to actions like the one taken against the Shopian seminary.
Public Impact and Concerns
The decision to declare the seminary unlawful raises several concerns for students, parents, and the local community. With over 800 students enrolled, questions remain about their academic future and continuity of education.
Parents may face uncertainty regarding alternative arrangements, while students could experience disruption in their studies. Authorities may need to provide clarity on how affected students will be accommodated.
At the same time, the government’s action reflects its emphasis on addressing security threats and preventing radicalisation, which remains a priority in the region.
Balancing Security and Education
The case highlights the challenge of balancing national security concerns with the need to protect access to education. While authorities aim to prevent unlawful activities, actions against educational institutions can have broader social implications.
Experts often point to the importance of evidence-based decisions and transparent processes to maintain public trust. Ensuring that investigations are thorough and impartial is critical in such cases.
Next Steps and Developments
Following the declaration, further administrative and legal steps are likely. The institution may have the option to challenge the decision through legal channels, while authorities may continue their investigation into the alleged activities.
The situation is expected to be closely monitored, given its implications for both security policy and educational governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
Inputs and images : Hindusthan Samachar
Edited By E. Devanshi varma
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