Stringent action against separatist organisations

The Central Government has issued stringent directives to the Jammu and Kashmir administration, mandating the confiscation of all assets as well as the freezing of bank accounts and financial resources associated with the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (TeH), a pro-Pakistan separatist amalgam, and the Muslim League Jammu and Kashmir, led by separatist Masarat Alam. Exercising authority conferred by Section 42 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the Central Government directed the State Governments and Union Territory administrations to wield powers under Section 7 and Section 8 of the Act concerning these unlawful associations. Section 7 pertains to the authority to prohibit the use of funds by an unlawful association, while Section 8 relates to the authority to designate places used for an unlawful association.
Both Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (TeH) and the Muslim League Jammu and Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) have been notorious for fueling separatism and orchestrating unimpeded pro-Pakistan rallies in the past. These organisations consistently engaged in virulent anti-India activities, collaborating with terrorists and orchestrating funding initiatives as integral components of their nefarious agenda. Founded by Syed Ali Shah Geelani, TeH has perpetuated venomous ideologies in impressionable minds for years. Their modus operandi included issuing shutdown calendars and orchestrating stone-pelting incidents to sow extensive turmoil in Kashmir. Aligned with Pakistan’s agenda, they sought to separate Jammu and Kashmir from India and establish Islamic rule in J&K, perpetuating a bloodbath on the streets of the region for years.
There is substantial evidence implicating TeH and the Muslim League (Masarat Alam) in various anti-India activities and persistently championing separatism. A retrospective analysis of past events starkly reveals the severe havoc caused by these separatist entities operating under the influence of Pakistan. Their actions have led to the tragic loss of numerous young lives and staggering economic damages running into thousands of crores. Minor incidents and mishaps, when manipulated by these entities, escalated into major controversies, unleashing a wave of anarchy. Countless youths have been continuously misled by these organisations operating on behalf of Pakistan for decades. The Government’s strategic moves have effectively strangled the terror ecosystem, with multiple security agencies working cohesively to counter separatist propaganda. The incremental dismantling of the terror ecosystem is underway, underscoring the Government’s unequivocal ascendancy.
Despite the passage of four years, the terror ecosystem, deeply entrenched and intricately connected, continues to exert its detrimental impact. Security agencies remain resolutely committed to dismantling this insidious network, working diligently to neutralise its influence and activities. These organisations sponsored by Pakistan appear stubbornly indifferent to the altered reality. The landscape has experienced a comprehensive transformation, marked by the relentless disintegration of the terror ecosystem. Even individuals who once held prominent positions among separatist leaders now face the unyielding scrutiny of the law. Irrespective of one’s standing, there is no refuge for those engaged in anti-national activities.
In 2019, following the abrogation of Article 370, the Government unambiguously adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. Meticulous planning has been undertaken with a singular focus on eradicating the terror ecosystem permanently. The recent prohibition of these two organisations, coupled with explicit directives to identify and seize all their properties, marks a decisive move. In addition to property confiscation, stringent instructions have been issued to freeze their bank accounts, ensuring a halt to the transfer and utilisation of funds for anti-India activities.
While Geelani has passed away and Masarat Alam is incarcerated, the residual radicalization from decades past persists among followers who espouse the same terrorist ideology. The overarching message from these decisive actions is crystal clear: anyone engaging in anti-India activities will confront severe repercussions from the Government. These resolute measures serve as an unequivocal deterrent for any organisation contemplating a similar path. The people of Jammu and Kashmir, wearied by decades of terrorism, yearn for a terror-free future, and the Government’s actions signal the dawning of that reality.