Centre Extends Ban on Zakir Naik-Led Islamic Research Foundation for Five More Years Under UAPA

New Delhi, November 13: The Central Government has extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), founded by Islamic preacher Dr. Zakir Abdul Karim Naik, for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on November 13, 2026, the Islamic Research Foundation has been declared an unlawful association with immediate effect for a further period of five years.

The notification stated that the government had taken the decision in view of activities allegedly prejudicial to the country’s security, communal harmony and secular fabric.

The Centre also referred to earlier notifications issued in November 2016 and November 2021, under which the organisation had been declared an unlawful association. The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Tribunal had subsequently upheld the government’s decision.

The Ministry further stated that the ban period under the previous notification was due to expire on November 14, 2026.

Citing its assessment of the organisation’s activities and statements attributed to its founder, Dr. Zakir Naik, the government said the extension was necessary to prevent activities it considers detrimental to national security, communal harmony and India’s sovereignty and integrity.

The fresh notification, issued under Sections 3(1) and 3(3) of the UAPA, provides for the continuation of the ban for five years from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.(KNC)