Islamabad: Senior leader All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and Chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Salvation Movement (JKSM), Altaf Ahmed Bhat, has strongly condemned the declaration of Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom in Imam Sahib, Shopian, as an unlawful institution under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), terming the move a clear example of ‘educational terrorism.’
In a statement issued today, Bhat said the decision reflects a troubling pattern where institutions that serve the people, particularly the underprivileged, are being targeted under sweeping and harsh laws. He described the action as a ‘flagrant injustice’ against those sections of society that rely on such institutions for accessible and affordable education.
‘This institution has long served as a beacon of learning for students who cannot afford expensive schooling,’ Bhat said. ‘It has contributed to society by producing educated individuals and professionals who have gone on to serve their communities with dedication.’
He added that shutting down such institutions on the basis of unproven allegations raises serious concerns about intent and fairness. ‘Banning educational centers without credible evidence of wrongdoing reflects a prejudiced approach that undermines both trust and justice,’ he stated.
He further stated that since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in 2019, the Indian occupation authorities have systematically dismantled the political, social, economic, and educational structures of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). He added that what remains is not a democratic framework but an imposed system of control, where civil spaces are curtailed, voices are suppressed, economic activity is constrained, and educational institutions are increasingly brought under state dominance, leaving the people, especially the youth , facing deep uncertainty and marginalization.
Bhat further said that the move cannot be viewed in isolation but appears to be part of a broader pattern of restrictive measures affecting civil and social life in the region. ‘When institutions that educate and uplift society are brought under such pressure, it creates fear, uncertainty, and long-term damage to the social fabric,’ he said.
He warned that such steps will directly impact students, disrupt academic continuity, and deepen the sense of alienation among the youth.
Altaf Ahmed Bhat urged the international community, human rights organizations, and global education bodies to take serious notice of the situation and raise concerns over actions that undermine the right to education and target institutions serving vulnerable communities.