In an effort to safeguard national security and preserve communal harmony, the central government has extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation, headed by Zakir Naik, for an additional five years. The organization continues to be designated as an unlawful association under the law. The Ministry of Home Affairs released the official notification regarding this decision on Friday, effectively lengthening the duration of the restriction.
Legal Framework and Timeline
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the existing restrictions on the Islamic Research Foundation under Section 6, sub-section (1) of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act of 1967 were scheduled to conclude on November 14, 2026. Previously, the central government had designated the Islamic Research Foundation as an unlawful association on November 15, 2021, invoking Section 3, sub-section (1) of the same legislation. The administration has now chosen to prolong this prohibition for another half-decade.
Reasons Behind the Prolonged Ban
The notification issued on Friday outlines several factors justifying the continuation of the crackdown. It explicitly states that the central government firmly believes the organization's operational patterns necessitate keeping the Islamic Research Foundation classified as an unlawful entity with immediate effect. The home ministry accused the group of participating in ventures that jeopardize the nation's security and threaten public peace as well as communal equilibrium.
Focus on Zakir Naik's Radical Speeches
The controversial rhetoric delivered by Zakir Naik serves as a primary foundation for the measures taken. The notification asserts that Zakir Naik fosters animosity and hatred between distinct religious communities. He has been encouraging youths belonging to a specific faith, both domestically and internationally, to partake in extremist activities. Furthermore, Zakir Naik has propagated radical viewpoints and delivered speeches to audiences worldwide utilizing global satellite television networks, the internet, print mediums, and social media platforms.
Official Ministry Directives
In an official statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs noted that exercising powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (3) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act of 1967, the central government declares the Islamic Research Foundation an unlawful association. The directive further specifies that this notification remains applicable for a five-year period starting from the date of its publication in the official gazette, subject to any orders that may be issued under Section 4 of the said act.
