India Extends Ban on Zakir Naik’s Islamic Research Foundation for Another Five Years
The Indian government has extended its ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), founded by Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik, for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued the notification on Friday, November 13, one day before the existing prohibition was scheduled to expire. The government cited national security concerns and alleged activities that could disrupt communal harmony.
The IRF was first declared an unlawful association on November 17, 2016. Its ban was subsequently renewed on November 15, 2021, and was due to expire on November 14, 2026.
Why Has India Extended the Ban?
In its notification, the Ministry of Home Affairs identified Zakir Naik, the organisation’s founder and president, as being particularly responsible for its alleged activities.
The government accused Naik of encouraging his followers to promote religious hostility and create tensions between different religious communities.
The notification also alleged that his speeches and public statements promoted enmity between religious groups and could influence young people in India and abroad towards terrorist activities.
According to the government, his messages reached millions of people through satellite television, the internet, print publications and social media.
The authorities further argued that allowing the organisation to continue operating could enable it to reorganise its members, promote separatist sentiments and undertake activities considered harmful to India’s sovereignty, integrity and security.
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