Centre Extends Ban on Students Islamic Movement of India for 5 Years

The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has extended the ban on the Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) for an additional five years. Home Minister Amit Shah announced the extension, emphasizing the government’s commitment to zero tolerance against terrorism. SIMI was initially banned in 2001 and has faced repeated extensions of the ban every five years. The decision to extend the ban was justified by citing SIMI’s involvement in terrorism, disruption of peace, and efforts to disturb communal harmony in India. The group is accused of propagating anti-national sentiments, escalating secessionism, and posing threats to the sovereignty, security, and integrity of the country, as per the provisions of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The notification from the Union Home Ministry pointed out that SIMI continues its subversive activities, reorganizing its activists who are still on the run. The group is allegedly engaged in activities detrimental to the integrity and security of India, disrupting the secular fabric by promoting communal disharmony. The extension of the ban is seen as a measure to curb the activities of the Students Islamic Movement of India and maintain national security and stability.