Controversial Ban in Kashmir Sparks Debate

National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi condemned the central government's ban on Awami Action Committee and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen, labeling it as an authoritarian move aimed at silencing dissent. This action under the Unlawful Activities Act exacerbates the sense of alienation among Kashmiris.

The central government's decision to ban the Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu & Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM) has drawn criticism from National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi. He described this move as an 'authoritarian' effort to suppress dissenting voices in the region.

Mehdi expressed his concerns via X, where he noted that such actions only contribute to the distress and feelings of alienation among Kashmiris. The ban on these groups, led by prominent voices such as Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Shia leader Masroor Abbas Ansari, was imposed for alleged anti-national activities.

The prohibition, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for five years, was criticized for undermining democratic ideals. Mehdi argued that imposing bans and executing decrees would not achieve New Delhi’s claims of democracy and normalcy in Kashmir.