SRINAGAR: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti, has strongly condemned the administration’s decision to designate Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom in Shopian as an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, describing the move as a “flagrant injustice” against economically disadvantaged communities.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Ms Mufti stated on the social media platform X that the action against the seminary reflects a wider pattern of targeting institutions that cater to marginalised sections of society. She alleged that such decisions are motivated by deep-seated prejudice and ill intent, lacking credible evidence of anti-national activities.
Defending the seminary’s role, Ms Mufti highlighted its long-standing provision of affordable education to economically weaker students. She asserted that many former students have become reputable doctors and professionals who have served the nation dedicatedly, and that prohibiting such institutions would severely impede the educational prospects of underprivileged students.
She further accused the administration of passively observing what she described as repeated assaults on Jammu and Kashmir’s identity.
The ban on the seminary was also criticised by Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi. He expressed deep concern over the decision on X, stating that institutions contributing to education, values, and social development warrant thoughtful engagement rather than abrupt restrictions.
The action was initiated by the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Anshul Garg, under Section 8(1) of the UAPA. The decision was reportedly based on a dossier compiled by the Shopian Police. Officials cited alleged links between the seminary and the banned Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, which was declared unlawful by the Indian government in 2019.
Authorities also pointed to alleged irregularities in the institution’s land records, financial management, and overall governance. Intelligence reports, according to officials, indicated sustained and covert connections between the seminary and the banned organisation. Furthermore, some former students are reportedly alleged to have been involved in militant activities in the south Kashmir region.
The administration indicated that the explanation provided by the institution was deemed unsatisfactory. Available evidence, officials claimed, suggested a potential misuse of the premises for unlawful purposes. Approximately 600 students were reportedly enrolled at the institution at the time of the administrative action.
The Chenab Times News Desk