Iqball Ahmad
In a significant move aimed at curbing anti-India activities, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has banned the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party (JKDFP), led by separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah, under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). This decision comes in response to the party’s alleged involvement in activities that challenge India’s integrity and promote pro-Pakistan sentiments.
Shabir Ahmad Shah, a prominent figure in the separatist movement, has been in custody since July 25, 2017. His arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) was related to a 2005 money laundering case, and he is also an accused in a terror-funding case being investigated by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Presently, Shah is incarcerated in a Delhi jail, awaiting legal proceedings.
The roots of the JKDFP trace back to 1998 when Shabir Ahmad Shah founded the party, categorizing Kashmir as a ‘dispute’ and adamantly rejecting any prospect of a resolution within the framework of the Indian Constitution.
The MHA’s notification underscores the active involvement of JKDFP members in separatist activities within the Jammu and Kashmir region, with the ultimate objective of establishing an independent Islamic State. To fund these unlawful endeavors, the party has tapped into various sources, including Pakistan and its proxy organizations. These funds have been instrumental in supporting terrorist activities and perpetuating incidents of stone-pelting against security forces in Jammu and Kashmir.
Furthermore, the actions of the JKDFP demonstrate a blatant disregard for the constitutional authority and the established legal framework of India. This disregard raises legitimate concerns about the organization’s intentions and its potential to disrupt public order.
The Central government regards this situation with utmost concern, fearing that without prompt intervention, the JKDFP could continue its anti-national activities, posing a grave threat to the territorial integrity, security, and sovereignty of the nation. The party persists in advocating for the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India, challenging the legitimacy of its accession. Additionally, it aims to escalate insurrectionary activities with the goal of carving out an independent Islamic State within Indian territory, thereby destabilizing the lawful government. The JKDFP has also been active in propagating anti-national sentiments among the people of Jammu and Kashmir, with the intent of sowing disaffection against India and disrupting public order.
In light of these pressing concerns, the ban imposed on the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party is seen as a necessary and decisive step to safeguard the interests of the nation and ensure the preservation of peace and security in the region. This action sends a clear message that activities aimed at undermining India’s sovereignty and unity will not be tolerated, and the government is committed to taking strong measures to protect its citizens and its constitutional framework.
