New Delhi : The Union Government has extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), founded by Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Abdul Karim Naik for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), citing concerns over national security, communal harmony and the alleged radicalisation of youth.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on November 13, the IRF has been declared an unlawful association with immediate effect for a further period of five years.
The notification cites speeches and statements made by Zakir Naik, alleging that they promote religious enmity and hatred among different communities and have the potential to encourage radicalisation among youth.
The Centre has also alleged that Naik’s speeches, disseminated through international satellite television networks, the internet, print and social media, have reached millions of people worldwide.
The fresh notification comes ahead of the expiry of the existing ban on November 14, 2026. The IRF was first declared an unlawful association in November 2016, with the restrictions renewed in November 2021.
Both earlier declarations were subsequently confirmed by the UAPA Tribunal.
The Ministry further expressed apprehension that, if the organisation’s activities were not curbed, it could reorganise absconding activists, promote communal disharmony, propagate anti national sentiments and support militancy and secessionist activities.
The latest order has been issued under Sections 3(1) and 3(3) of the UAPA, 1967, and will remain in force for five years from its publication in the Official Gazette, subject to any order passed under Section 4 of the Act.
