The Centre on Tuesday banned Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), NGO by the controversial Islamist preacher Zakir, for five years after declaring it as an ‘unlawful organisation’ under Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).
The decision was taken at a cabinet meeting presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Home Ministry will soon issue a formal notification on the ban.
“Law enforcement agencies will maintain strict surveillance of the activities of all establishments of the Foundation,” a senior government official told media.
Naik’s lawyer told ANI that the ban was unjustified and said that in order to ban an organization under UAPA , it has to have as its object promoting an offence under section 153A (promoting enmity on the ground of religion).
However, the Home Ministry alleged that IRF had dubious link with the Peace TV, an international Islamic channel accused of propogating terrorism. The Ministry said Naik has allegedly made many provocative speeches and engaged in terror propaganda.
Maharashtra Police has also charged case against Naik for his alleged involvement in radicalisation of youth and luring them to terrorism.
Naik came under the scanner after Bangladeshi newspaper ‘Daily Star’ reported that one of the perpetrators of Dhaka terror attack was inspired by Naik.
He is banned in both Canada and United Kingdom for his hate speeches.
