Centre Authorizes States, UTs to Act Against Banned JK-Based Groups

The Union government has granted authority to all states and Union Territories to take action against three banned Jammu and Kashmir-based groups under the UAPA.

The groups include the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction), Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Bhat faction), and Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ministry of Home Affairs issued notifications directing the exercise of powers under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act by state governments and Union Territory administrations in relation to these unlawful associations.

Recently, the home ministry extended the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami, Jammu and Kashmir, for five years, citing its activities against national security and sovereignty.

Also, the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Sumji faction) and the Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir (Bhat faction) were declared as banned groups for their anti-India and pro-Pakistan activities.