IRF Ban Extended for 5 Years: Why Centre Tightened Grip on Zakir Naik’s Organisation | Capital TV

The central government has officially extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), founded by controversial preacher Zakir Naik, for another five years. This decision has been implemented under the stringent Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA). Authorities stated that the organization's activities and provocative speeches continue to promote religious hatred and communal disarmony, posing a direct threat to the internal security and sovereignty of the country. The IRF was originally declared an unlawful association in November 2016. Since then, security agencies have maintained strict surveillance on its operations and associated networks. The latest extension ensures that the ongoing restrictions on the foundation, its leadership, and its properties will remain firmly in place across India to prevent any resurgence of radicalization and extremist propaganda.