New Delhi [India]: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has declared the Jammu and Kashmir-based Awami Action Committee (AAC) an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. The organization faces an immediate five-year ban for allegedly engaging in activities that threaten India’s sovereignty, integrity, and security.
According to an official notification, the AAC, led by Umar Farooq, has been accused of supporting terrorist activities and spreading anti-India propaganda to encourage separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.
The ministry claimed that AAC has been mobilizing funds to back secessionist, separatist, and terrorist operations in the region. It further alleged that the organization promoted unrest, incited armed insurgency, and spread hatred against the government, disregarding India’s constitutional authority.
The notification cited multiple cases against AAC leaders, including Umar Farooq, for alleged involvement in anti-national speeches, violence incitement, and stone-pelting incidents. It also mentioned a 2018 charge sheet filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against AAC spokesperson Aftab Ahmad Shah and 11 others for conspiring against the state. Additionally, several police cases since 2008 accused AAC members of delivering inflammatory speeches, calling for election boycotts, and instigating public disorder.
The government warned that failure to suppress AAC’s activities could result in continued anti-national actions, such as spreading separatist propaganda, inciting violence, and supporting militancy. The notification highlighted that the group’s activities pose a significant threat to national security and public order.
Using its powers under Section 3(1) of the UAPA, 1967, the government officially declared AAC an unlawful organization. The ban will remain in effect for five years unless overturned through legal intervention.
This decision aligns with ongoing efforts to curb organizations accused of promoting separatism and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The government continues to enforce strict measures under UAPA to address threats to national security.