Srinagar, Mar 11 (UNI) The Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday declared two Jammu and Kashmir-based groups, including the one headed by Miriwaz Umar Farooq as banned organisations for five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

The two groups banned included Awami Action Committee (AAC) headed by Mirwaiz and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) led by Masroor Abbas Ansari.

The decision was taken citing the organization’s alleged involvement in anti-national activities, secessionist propaganda, and support for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a notification, the MHA said that AAC chaired by Umar Farooq is indulging in unlawful activities, which are prejudicial to the integrity, sovereignty, and security of the country.

It said that members of the AAC have remained involved in supporting terrorist activities and anti-India propaganda for fueling secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir.

The notification said the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and local law enforcement agencies have registered multiple cases against AAC members, including Umar Farooq, for their alleged role in promoting separatism and provoking the people against the Government of India for raising anti-national sentiments.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the Central Government hereby declares the Awami Action Committee (AAC) as an unlawful association,” the notification read.

The MHA also banned (JKIM) led by Masroor Abbas Ansari alleging that the members of the group have been actively supporting terrorist activities, engaging in anti-India propaganda, and mobilizing funds to promote separatist and secessionist agendas in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ban on two groups is part of the Union government's broader crackdown on separatist and militant elements in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier also several separatist and militant-linked groups have been banned by the MHA.

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