Srinagar, Apr 27: The Jammu and Kashmir administration has declared Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom, located at Imam Sahib in Shopian, as an unlawful entity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.
The decision was taken through an official order issued by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg, invoking powers under Section 8(1) of the Act.
According to the order, the action was initiated after a dossier submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police, Shopian, dated March 24, 2026.
Authorities said the seminary, though operating as a religious educational institution, was found to be involved in serious legal, administrative and financial irregularities.
The order mentions concerns including alleged irregular land acquisition, lack of mandatory registration with competent authorities, and attempts to avoid statutory oversight.
Officials also cited alleged links between the institution and Jamaat-e-Islami, which was banned by the Government of India in 2019. Authorities claimed individuals affiliated with the banned organisation continued to hold key administrative and academic positions in the seminary.
The administration further raised concerns over financial transparency, alleging suspicious handling of institutional funds and possible misuse or diversion of money.
The order also states that security agencies reported the institution had, over time, created an environment conducive to radicalisation, with some former students allegedly involved in militant-related activities.
Officials said a show-cause notice had been served to the institution’s chairman on March 31, 2026, asking why the premises should not be declared unlawful. After receiving the response, police reportedly termed the objections factually weak and without legal merit.
Authorities said the proceedings were preventive in nature and aimed at stopping misuse of the premises for unlawful activities.
With the latest notification under Section 8(1) of the UAPA, the institution has now been formally declared an unlawful place/entity.
The order allows further action by competent authorities, including sealing of the premises and freezing of financial assets.
Sources said action against the seminary, including possible seizure of the property, may take place within the next 24 to 48 hours. The institution reportedly had hundreds of students enrolled. (KDC)
