GoI extends ban on Zakir Naik-led Islamic Research Foundation for another five years under UAPA

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Friday extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), headed by Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, declaring it an unlawful association for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

The organisation was initially declared unlawful on November 15, 2021, under Section 3(1) of the UAPA. The latest order extends the restrictions under Section 6(1) of the Act.

In its notification, the Home Ministry said the activities of the IRF were considered detrimental to India’s security and could potentially disturb public peace, communal harmony and the country’s secular fabric.

The ministry alleged that the organisation and its members, particularly its founder and president Zakir Naik, had been encouraging followers to promote religious disharmony and feelings of hatred, enmity and ill-will among different communities.

The GoI cited what it described as Naik’s objectionable and subversive speeches and statements as among the reasons for continuing the ban.

According to the MHA, Naik allegedly used his speeches to promote hostility between religious communities and influence young people in India and abroad towards “terrorist activities”.

The ministry further claimed that he had used international satellite television channels, the internet, print publications and social media platforms to spread what it termed “radical messages” to a global audience.

The government also expressed apprehension that lifting the restrictions could enable the organisation to resume its alleged activities and regroup members who remain absconding.

It further alleged that the IRF’s activities could promote communal tensions, spread anti-national sentiments, encourage secessionism through support for militancy and pose a threat to India’s sovereignty, integrity and security.

The Home Ministry said the extension was necessary to prevent such activities and safeguard national security and communal harmony.

With the latest order, the IRF will continue to remain designated as an unlawful association for another five years. The existing ban was scheduled to expire on November 14, 2026.