Jamia Siraj Ul-Uloom in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district has been deemed unlawful under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) following reports that 17 of its former students joined terrorist groups and were subsequently killed in encounters. Officials highlighted a consistent pattern of indoctrination and recruitment among these individuals, leading to the institution’s designation as unlawful. Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg issued an order based on evidence linking the seminary to banned outfit Jamaat-e-Islami.
The order pointed to alleged covert connections between Jamia Siraj Ul-Uloom and Jamaat-e-Islami, with individuals associated with the banned group reportedly holding influential positions within the institution. The environment at the seminary was said to have fostered radicalization, with numerous alumni engaging in terrorist activities. Despite these claims, the institute’s Chairman, Mohammad Shafi Lone, denied any ties to Jamaat-e-Islami or illegal organizations.
Lone emphasized the institute’s compliance with the law, stating that they are affiliated with recognized educational boards and have no involvement in unlawful activities. He disclosed that the institution had responded to a show-cause notice from authorities and offered cooperation in any investigations. Security agencies have raised concerns about the seminary’s alleged role in activities detrimental to national security, with reports suggesting familial links between key figures at Jamia Siraj Ul-Uloom and deceased terrorists.
According to an official, there have been indications of a supportive environment within the institution that facilitates unlawful and anti-national actions. The banned Jamaat-e-Islami members were reported to be operating through proxies to advance their agenda covertly. Seminaries like Jamia Siraj Ul-Uloom have historically been associated with Jamaat-e-Islami, raising concerns about their potential involvement in prohibited activities.
