centre-asks-states-to-act-against-aac-under-uapa

In a significant development, the Central Government has granted state governments the authority to take action against the Awami Action Committee (AAC), following its declaration as an unlawful association.

 

The move, announced on Monday, empowers states to exercise powers under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, enabling them to seize properties linked to the banned organisation and restrict its activities.

 

The notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) allows state governments to invoke Sections 7 and 8 of the UAPA, which include provisions to seize property and curb the activities of unlawful organisations. The delegation of these powers is made under Section 42 of the Act, which allows the Centre to transfer enforcement responsibilities to the states.

 

The MHA’s notification stated, “In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 42 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, the Central Government directs that all powers exercisable by it under Sections 7 and 8 of the said Act shall also be exercised by the state governments.”

 

The aim of this decision is to enhance the government's ability to take swift and effective action at the state level, particularly in regions where the AAC has been active. By decentralising enforcement powers, the government hopes to strengthen internal security and ensure that the ban on the AAC is strictly enforced across the country. State authorities are expected to collaborate closely with central agencies to ensure the full implementation of this measure.

 

Earlier this month, on 11 March, the MHA declared the Jammu and Kashmir-based AAC an unlawful association under the UAPA, imposing an immediate five-year ban. The government accused the organisation, led by Umar Farooq, of engaging in activities that threaten the sovereignty, integrity, and security of India. The AAC has been involved in supporting terrorist activities and spreading anti-India propaganda to fuel separatism in Jammu and Kashmir.

 

The government has also accused the AAC of raising funds to support secessionist and militant activities, and of inciting violence and unrest in the region. Several cases have been filed against AAC members, including Umar Farooq, for promoting anti-national activities, and for their involvement in violent incidents, including stone-pelting and election boycotts.