India Renews Five-Year Ban on Islamic Research Foundation
The Indian government extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation and its founder Zakir Naik for five years to prevent the promotion of terrorism.
The Ministry of Home Affairs renewed a five-year ban on the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) on November 13, 2026, designating the organization as an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The notification took effect immediately, preventing the organization's legal status from expiring the following day.
Authorities allege that the IRF and its founder, Zakir Naik, promote religious hostility and incite youth globally to commit terrorist acts through social media and satellite television. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the organization propagates an ideology of terrorism and separatism, aligning the move with a zero-tolerance policy toward anti-national activities. The government maintains the renewal is necessary to stop the foundation from resuming subversive activities and promoting communal disharmony.
The IRF was first banned in 2016 and again in 2021, with both declarations upheld by tribunals. Zakir Naik has lived abroad since 2016 and remains under investigation by the National Investigation Agency.
