Seminary sealed in Shopian; entry banned under UAPA provisions

Srinagar, Apr 27: Authorities in Kashmir’s Shopian district on Monday sealed the premises of Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom at Imam Sahib after it was declared a “notified place” linked to an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

The action follows an order issued by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, under Section 8(1) of the Act, declaring the institution as being used for the purposes of an unlawful association. The notification was based on a dossier submitted by the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shopian and other material on record.

Subsequently, District Magistrate Shopian, Shishir Gupta (IAS), invoked Section 8(4) of the UAPA to impose a prohibitory order, effectively banning entry into the seminary premises with immediate effect from April 27.

As per the order, no individual who was not a resident of the notified premises at the time of the declaration shall be allowed to enter or remain within the compound without prior written permission from the District Magistrate.

“The restrictions are being enforced in the interest of public safety and national security,” the order reads, adding that the institution has been linked to activities prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of the nation, including alleged radicalisation of youth and financial irregularities.

The administration has, however, provided limited exemptions under the law. Close relatives of individuals residing at the institution at the time of notification may be allowed entry, subject to approval from the authorities. Additionally, any person granted access must strictly adhere to the conditions imposed by the district administration.

Officials warned that any violation of the prohibitory order would invite strict penal action under relevant provisions of the UAPA and other applicable laws. “Any person found entering or being present within the notified place in contravention of this order shall be liable to be removed and prosecuted,” the directive states.

Officials said the sealing of the premises is part of a broader legal and administrative process following the declaration of the institution as an unlawful entity. Increased monitoring and enforcement measures around the site are expected in the coming days to ensure compliance with the order.