Srinagar, The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has prolonged the ban on Jamat-e-Islami in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) for an additional five years. This decision continues the crackdown on organizations accused of supporting the region’s freedom movement and pro-freedom groups.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the initial ban was imposed by the Modi administration on February 28, 2019, citing the organization’s support for the freedom movement and pro-freedom groups in IIOJK. Since then, Indian police and troops have arrested hundreds of its leaders and activists and confiscated properties and other assets associated with the party. Jamaat-e-Islami has been a significant player in the ongoing struggle in IIOJK, advocating for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

The extension of the ban was announced by Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, who stated that the organization continued its anti-India activities. Shah emphasized that “Anyone threatening the security of the nation will face ruthless measures.” This action underscores the Indian government’s stance against groups it perceives as threats to national security.

It’s important to note that Modi’s government has previously banned several other organizations in IIOJK, including the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Jammu and Kashmir Muslim League, Democratic Freedom Party, Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, and Dukhtaran-e-Millat, for their roles in the region’s freedom movement.