In the aftermath of the Union Home Minister’s recent declaration categorizing the Masarat Alam-led Muslim League as a separatist and anti-national organization, the Handwara police in Jammu and Kashmir have initiated a robust public awareness campaign. The police, utilizing loudspeakers and a drum beater for added emphasis, took to the streets to caution citizens against any involvement with the banned outfit, making it clear that such associations could lead to severe legal consequences.
The recorded announcement said, “This is to inform the citizens that Muslim League Jammu and Kashmir- Masarat Alam faction, by the notification number 5462E, dated 27-12-2023, has been declared unlawful organisation.” Handwara Police also warned people to refrain from making any contact with the banned organisation. Similarly, the announcement was also made regarding Tehreek-e Hurriyat.
Handwara Police also announced that Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, Jammu and Kashmir (TeH) has been declared as unlawful organisation by the government order having notification number SO5532E dated 31-12-2023. Accordingly, the police announced explicit warning, “Beware of making contact with the banned Hurriyat organization. Any contact may lead to legal action. Subsequently, to reinforce the message, posters were also pasted prominently across the Handwara town, cautioning people to steer away from the banned Hurriyat organization and emphasizing strict consequences for any attempted contact.
The Muslim League, based in Jammu and Kashmir, found itself officially outlawed on December 27 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, for a period of five years. Beyond cautioning citizens, the Handwara police are actively encouraging the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activity related to the banned organization. The authorities emphasize the vital role of community cooperation in maintaining peace and order in the region.