J&K Police attach office of banned Tehreek-e-Hurriyat under UAPA

The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Wednesday attached the headquarters of the banned organisation Tehreek-e-Hurriyat in Hyderpora of Budgam district. The organisation, founded by separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani in 2004, allegedly served as a hub for separatist activities in Kashmir for years.

A police spokesperson said, “In a major action against secessionist and terrorist networks, Budgam Police have attached the head office of the banned organisation Tehreek-e-Hurriyat at Rehmatabad, Hyderpora, under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA).”

The attached property comprises a three-storey building situated on 1 kanal and 1 marla of land (Khasra No. 946, Khata No. 306), which was being used as the outfit’s office. The action is linked to FIR No. 08/2024, registered at Budgam Police Station under the UAPA.

Tehreek-e-Hurriyat was declared an unlawful organisation and banned by the Central government in 2023.

“Acting on collected evidence and with due approval from the competent authority, the property was attached as per legal provisions. This action marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation against unlawful and subversive activities and reflects the firm resolve of Budgam Police to neutralise threats to national security and maintain peace in the region,” the spokesperson added.

The official further said that Budgam Police, in coordination with other agencies, will continue to take strict measures against individuals and organisations engaged in activities detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of the nation.

Geelani floated his own outfit Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Kashmir after falling out with Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir in 2002 over the latter’s silence over participation in elections through proxy candidates by Hurriyat Conference constituent People’s Conference.

This had led to a vertical split in the Hurriyat Conference with Geelani floating a parallel amalgam in 2004.