Ban on Religious Seminary in Shopian ‘Educational Terrorism,’ Says APHC Leader Altaf Ahmed Bhatt

Islamabad: Senior leader of the 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 “educational terrorism.”
In a statement issued on Monday, Bhat described the action as part of a disturbing trend in which institutions serving the public—particularly underprivileged communities—are being targeted through stringent legal measures. He called the decision a “flagrant injustice” against those who depend 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 played a vital role in producing educated individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.”
He further argued that shutting down educational institutions on the basis of what he termed “unsubstantiated allegations” raises serious concerns regarding fairness and intent. “Banning centers of learning without credible evidence reflects a prejudiced approach that undermines justice and public trust,” he added.
Bhat also linked the development to broader changes following the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in 2019, asserting that political, social, economic, and educational structures in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have been systematically weakened. According to him, the region now faces increasing restrictions on civil space, economic activity, and educational autonomy.
He emphasized that the latest move should not be viewed in isolation but as part of a wider pattern affecting civil and social life. “When institutions that educate and uplift society are subjected to such pressure, it creates fear, uncertainty, and long-term damage to the social fabric,” he said.
Warning of serious consequences, Bhat noted that such actions would directly impact students, disrupt academic continuity, and deepen the sense of alienation among youth in the region.
He urged the international community, human rights organizations, and global educational bodies to take notice of the situation and raise concerns over measures that, in his view, undermine the right to education and disproportionately affect vulnerable communities.