MHA Declares Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) Unlawful Under UAPA

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an “unlawful association” for a five-year period under the anti-terror Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Masrat Alam, who has been in detention in Jammu and Kashmir for the past 20 years, with intermittent releases, is currently held in Delhi’s Tihar jail since 2019. He assumed the leadership of the separatist group, Hurriyat Conference, following the demise of chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani in 2021.

Amit Shah’s Statement

Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the organization and its members are engaged in anti-national and secessionist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, supporting terrorist endeavors and inciting the establishment of Islamic rule in the region. Shah, in a post, conveyed the Modi government’s unwavering message that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of the nation will face the full force of the law.

Reasons for Unlawful Designation

The MHA notification highlighted that the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) was known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda. The organization’s objectives included seeking the freedom of Jammu and Kashmir from India, aspiring to merge the region with Pakistan, and establish Islamic rule.

Involvement in Unlawful Activities

The Ministry revealed that the outfit had been actively raising funds through various sources, including Pakistan and its proxy organizations, to perpetrate unlawful activities. These activities encompassed supporting terrorist actions and engaging in sustained stone-pelting on security forces, displaying a blatant disregard for the constitutional authority and the country’s constitutional setup.

Linkages with Banned Organizations

The Home Ministry stated that there were several inputs indicating linkages of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) with banned terrorist organizations. Its members were found to be supporting terrorist activities with the intent to create a reign of terror in the country.

Government’s Concerns and Decision

The Central government expressed the opinion that if immediate measures were not taken to curb or control the unlawful activities of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), the organization would continue engaging in anti-national activities detrimental to the territorial integrity, security, and sovereignty of the country. The outfit was seen as advocating the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India, disputing its accession to the Union, and propagating false narratives and anti-national sentiments to cause disaffection against India and disrupt public order.

Declaration Under UAPA

As a response to these concerns, the outfit was officially declared an unlawful association under Section 3 (3) of the UAPA, with the designation set to last for five years.

Questions Related to Exams

Q1: Why did the Ministry of Home Affairs declare the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) an “unlawful association” under UAPA?

A1: The declaration was made due to the group’s involvement in anti-national and secessionist activities, supporting terrorism, and inciting the establishment of Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.

Q2: What is Amit Shah’s stance on those acting against the nation’s unity and integrity?

A2: Amit Shah asserts that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of the nation will face the full wrath of the law.

Q3: What were the objectives of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) according to the MHA?

A3: The MHA stated that the objectives included seeking freedom for Jammu and Kashmir from India, merging with Pakistan, and establishing Islamic rule.

Q4: Why was the outfit declared unlawful under UAPA?

A4: The outfit was declared unlawful under UAPA due to its involvement in raising funds for unlawful activities, including supporting terrorism.