Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Challenges Ban on Kashmir's Awami Action Committee

Kashmir's cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, condemned the five-year ban on the Awami Action Committee by the Indian government, citing it as a move to suppress democratic advocacy in the region. The government accused the committee of promoting separatism and terrorism, labeling it an unlawful organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent cleric in Kashmir, has raised strong objections to the Indian government's five-year ban on the Awami Action Committee (AAC), accusing the move of being politically motivated. Farooq, who also heads the separatist All Parties Hurriyat Conference, criticized the decision as a crackdown on democratic advocacy.

The Ministry of Home Affairs declared AAC an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, alleging that the organization was involved in actions threatening India's sovereignty and security. Farooq, however, defended the AAC, asserting that it has always championed the rights and aspirations of Kashmir's people through peaceful means.

The government stated that the AAC was involved in supporting terrorist activities and anti-India propaganda. Mirwaiz denounced these claims, arguing that this is part of a broader policy of intimidation since August 2019. Legal documents reference several cases against AAC leaders for alleged anti-national activities, citing their persistent threat to public order and national security.

(With inputs from agencies.)