The Union Home Ministry has recently declared the ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA). The UAPA is a stringent law that empowers the government to ban any organization that is involved in terrorist or anti-national activities, and to prosecute its members and associates.
The Muslim League Jammu Kashmir, is a separatist outfit that advocates the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from India and its merger with Pakistan. It is led by Masarat Alam, a notorious leader of the Hurriyat Conference, who is currently in jail for his role in the 2010 stone-pelting agitation that resulted in the death of over 100 civilians. The Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) has been accused of supporting and instigating terrorist activities in J&K, and of inciting the people to establish Islamic rule in the region.
The banning of the MLJK-Masarat Alam faction is a welcome and timely move by the central government, as it sends a clear message that anyone acting against India’s unity, sovereignty, and integrity will not be tolerated and will face the full wrath of the law. The ban also aims to curb the radicalization and mobilization of the youth in J&K, who are often misled and exploited by the separatist and terrorist elements. The ban will also help isolate and weaken the other factions of the Hurriyat Conference, which have been trying to disrupt the peace and development process in J&K.
The banning of the MLJK-MA is not an isolated action, but a part of a larger strategy of the Modi government to restore normalcy and stability in J&K, after the historic decision of abrogating Article 370 and bifurcating the state into two union territories in 2019. The government has been taking various steps to ensure the security, welfare, and empowerment of the people of J&K, such as conducting free and fair elections, providing development schemes and projects, creating employment opportunities, and protecting the rights and interests of minorities and women.
The government has also been engaging in dialogue and outreach with the stakeholders and the civil society of J&K, to address their grievances and aspirations, and to build trust and confidence. The recent meeting between the Prime Minister and the leaders of various political parties of J&K was a significant step in this direction, as it paved the way for the resumption of the democratic process and the delimitation exercise in the region.
The banning is a step towards peace and stability in J&K, but it is not the end of the challenge. The government must remain vigilant and proactive in dealing with the threats and challenges posed by the separatist and terrorist forces, both within and outside the country.
The banning of the Muslim League J&K is a step towards peace and stability in J&K. Still, it is also a step towards the realization of the vision of ‘Naya Kashmir’, a vision of a prosperous, progressive, and peaceful J&K, where every citizen enjoys the fruits of democracy, development, and dignity.