Today, On 14th July, The Supreme Court has dismissed a plea challenging the tribunal’s decision to extend the ban on SIMI, upholding the 5-year prohibition imposed by the Centre under UAPA based on continued threats to national security and public order.
The Supreme Court of India dismissed AS Ismail’s interim bail plea, citing the availability of physiotherapy treatment in Tihar Jail. The Delhi government assured the Court that proper medical care, including physiotherapy, could be provided. Ismail is accused under the UAPA for allegedly radicalizing youth and inciting unrest against the government.
A special bench of Judges Anil Kilor and Shyam Chandak at the Bombay High Court has commenced daily hearings for death confirmation pleas and appeals related to the 7/11 Mumbai train blast. The gruesome incident in 2006 resulted in 189 deaths and 827 injuries, with 13 accused arrested and 15 marked as wanted, primarily Pakistani nationals. The hearing is expected to last six months.
The Delhi High Court on 27th May, denied bail to Abubacker E., former Chairman of the Popular Front of India (PFI), under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act being investigated by the NIA. The court found substantial evidence of PFI’s plan to establish Islamic law by 2047, overthrowing the constitutional government. Abubacker’s plea for medical grounds was also rejected. PFI and its affiliates were banned under UAPA by the Central Government on 28th September 2022, and the Apex Court declined to intervene in the matter on 6th November 2023.
The Indian government, led by PM Narendra Modi, has extended the ban on SIMI for five years under UAPA to counter terrorism and safeguard national security. SIMI’s involvement in terrorism, communal disruption, and collaboration with Pakistani-based leaders to execute attacks prompted the ban extension. The decision has garnered support from multiple state governments citing concerns of subversive activities and anti-national sentiments.
