NIA conducts more searches in Kashmir, Delhi

Srinagar: The National Investigation Agency on Thursday searched offices of NGOs and trusts in Srinagar, Baramullah, Anantnag, Kulgam and New Delhi over alleged misuse of funds. Offices of Charity Alliance of Zafar-ul-Islam and Human Welfare Foundation were among those searched in New Delhi. In Kashmir, the offices of JK Yateem Foundation, Salvation Movement of Zafar Akbar Bhat, a separatist organisation, J&K Voice of Victims, run by Abdul Qadeer and Falah-e-Aam Trust run by Ghulam Muhammad Bhat were searched.

NIA alleged that the searches were related to certain NGOs and trusts raising funds in the name of charitable activities but using them for secessionist activities in J&K.

“This case was registered by NIA on October 8, under sections 120B, 124 A of IPC and sections 17, 18, 22A, 22C, 38, 39 and 40 of UAPA, on directions of MHA on receipt of credible information that certain NGOs and trusts are collecting funds domestically and abroad through donations and business contributions in the name of various welfare activities such as public health, education etc.,” NIA said in a statement on Thursday.

Political parties, including the National Conference and the People’s Democratic Party, criticised the NIA raids as an attempt to muzzle dissent. The NIA, however, alleged that funds were sent to J&K through hawala, cash couriers and other channels to sustain secessionist and terrorist activities in J&K. “Several incriminating documents and electronic devices have been seized during searches,” it alleged.

The NIA had conducted raids at 10 places in Kashmir, including that of a local newspaper, rights activists and journalists, and one location in Bengaluru on Wednesday on misuse of funds raised through NGOs and trusts.