The Union Home Ministry has renewed the ban on Zakir Naik-led IRF for five years. The government cited terrorism, separatism and threats to communal harmonyZakir Naik (Photo-Social Media) The Union Home Ministry has extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), led by fugitive preacher Zakir Naik, for another five years, news agency Press Trust of India reported.Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the organisation had been propagating terrorism and separatism, instigating violent unrest, encouraging absconding terrorists to regroup and fomenting communal discord.In a post on X on Friday, Shah said the ministry had extended the ban on the IRF as an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "zero tolerance" towards terrorism and anti-national activities."Led by fugitive terror preacher Dr Zakir Naik, the organisation has been involved in sinister anti-India designs, including inciting communal hatred and promoting terrorism," Shah said. "In steadfast adherence to PM Narendra Modi's vision of zero tolerance towards terrorism and anti-national activities, MHA extends the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation as an unlawful association under the UAPA," he added.According to PTI, the ministry said the IRF had been involved in activities harmful to the country's security and with the potential to disturb peace and communal harmony.
In a gazette notification, the ministry said it had used powers under Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, to declare the IRF an unlawful association. The declaration was upheld by the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal.The previous ban was due to end on November 14.
The fresh order extends it for another five years over the organisation's activities related to terrorism, separatism and communal discord.- Ends