The Ministry of Home Affairs on Friday extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation, founded by Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik, for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, declaring it an unlawful association. In a notification issued on November 13, the Centre said the organisation's activities posed a threat to India's sovereignty, integrity and security.

The ministry said Naik's speeches and statements were objectionable and subversive, and had the potential to create disharmony in society by promoting hatred and hostility among different religious communities. It cited the activities and statements of the organisation's founder as key reasons for the extension, and expressed apprehension that the organisation could resume its activities if the restrictions were lifted.S1S2

This is the third extension of the ban on the foundation, which was first imposed in 2016. The Islamic Research Foundation was founded in Mumbai in February 1991 as a non-profit organisation by Naik. It has faced several allegations, including radicalising young people, promoting activities detrimental to national security and involvement in money laundering.S2