This report presents a detailed account of ten significant actions taken by the governments of Bharat and Bangladesh against the banned terrorist organization Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) over the fifty-year period from 1975 to 2025. The actions highlight persistent governmental efforts to counter JeI’s activities, property, and influence in both countries, citing legal, security, and political concerns.
Overview of Jamaat-e-Islami and its Bans
Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) has long been accused by authorities in both Bharat and Bangladesh of promoting separatism, terrorism, and illegal activities. Governments have taken steps against JeI’s members, properties, and affiliate organizations, with many actions occurring after incriminating findings by investigative agencies or during broader crackdowns on extremist organizations.
Recent Crackdowns and Legal Measures (2025)
Ban on 215 Organizations in Jammu & Kashmir
On August 23, 2025, the Jammu & Kashmir administration, through the Department of Law, listed 215 organizations linked with Jamaat-e-Islami and its affiliate, Falaha-e-Aam Trust (FAT), for comprehensive scrutiny and administrative embargoes. Official statements revealed that these organizations had repeatedly failed to demonstrate their legality, and police reports flagged them for nefarious connections. The government ordered suspension of activities in educational facilities run by these groups until further notice to safeguard students’ interests.
NIA Charges and Funding Links (August 2025)
On August 7, 2025, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) charged three individuals—Mir Shakil Ahmad, Amir Ahmad, and Abdul Halim Ganie—linked with JeI under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). The investigation revealed these individuals were allegedly channeling funds to support JeI and its terror-linked networks. Bharatiya courts recognized the serious charges and allowed properties and bank accounts associated with JeI members to be seized.
Raids and Seizure of Documents (February 2025)
In February 2025, Jammu & Kashmir Police conducted intensive raids in the Handwara area as part of an anti-terrorism operation. Police seized a large cache of documents and books from locations affiliated with JeI, including 668 books flagged as promoting JeI’s separatist ideology. Authorities stated that these materials were used to incite extremism and were confiscated to deter further radicalization.
Property Seizures and National Security Concerns
Properties Seized in Kashmir (November 2022)
On November 27, 2022, in a landmark move, authorities in Jammu & Kashmir seized 11 properties valued at approximately ₹90 crore, all linked to JeI. These seizures, conducted under the UAPA and state anti-terrorism regulations, included residential houses, shopping complexes, orchards, and vacant lands. The administration declared these assets as “proceeds of terrorism” and moved swiftly to block JeI’s financial channels, disrupting its ability to aid separatists.
Crackdown in Bangladesh
Major Arrests in Bangladesh (July 2021)
On July 28, 2021, Bangladesh authorities arrested 19 suspected militants from areas such as Sirajganj, Dhaka, and link roads/highways. These individuals, tied to JeI and its student wing, Islami Chhatra Shibir, allegedly plotted to destabilize the Bangladeshi government. Police investigations revealed detailed plans to attack key government institutions and spread unrest through targeted violence.
Previous Bans and Prohibition Orders
JeI Declared Unlawful in Jammu & Kashmir (February 2019, Extended 2024)
In February 2019, the Bharatiya government banned Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu & Kashmir under UAPA, citing its active role in backing separatist and terrorist groups. After investigations into JeI’s activities, the government identified it as a “threat to state security and public order.” The ban, initially for five years, was extended further in February 2024 to prevent JeI’s resurgence.
Bangladesh’s 2013 Ban Under Anti-Terror Laws
Bangladesh banned Jamaat-e-Islami in 2013 under anti-terror laws, following court findings that JeI’s actions fuelled division, fostered sectarian strife, and threatened social harmony. Its student organization Islami Chhatra Shibir was also implicated for terrorist activities. Past records showed JeI’s support for Pakistan during the 1971 Liberation War, making the group’s legitimacy deeply controversial in Bangladesh.
Student Wing Arrests (August 2010)
In August 2010, Bangladeshi authorities, including the Criminal Investigation Department, arrested several student members of the JeI-linked Islami Chhatra Shibir. Those arrested faced allegations of supporting terrorist activities and propagating extremist material to further JeI’s radical agenda in Bangladesh, including possession of incriminating evidence from Dhaka and Gazipur.
Earlier Prohibitions and Emergency Measures
1992 Ban in Bharat
In December 1992, the Bharatiya Central Government imposed a ban on JeI-under the UAPA, specifically citing involvement in activities inciting communal tension and posing a threat to national unity after the Babri Masjid demolition. The ban was not overturned even after review petitions, reflecting the government’s serious security concerns.
Emergency-era Ban (1975)
During Bharat’s Emergency imposed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on June 25, 1975, Jamaat-e-Islami was banned for five years, primarily on the grounds of endangering national security and public order. Offices were sealed, literature confiscated, and many key leaders detained as the government sought to neutralize organizations it considered threats during a period of heightened national surveillance.
Conclusion
Across five decades, Bharat and Bangladesh have repeatedly targeted Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) with bans, property seizures, and criminal prosecutions, citing the group’s alleged ties to terrorism, separatism, and extremist indoctrination. From Emergency-era crackdowns to modern anti-terror investigations and large-scale raids, both nations have maintained a consistent policy of zero tolerance toward JeI and its affiliates, reflecting enduring security and political priorities.
Source: 10 Incidents : Government Action against Jamaat-e-Islami (1975-2025)
