The Indian government on Monday extended the ban imposed on terror group Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) for five years, citing its involvement in fomenting terrorism and disrupting peace and communal harmony in the country.

In support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of zero tolerance for terrorism, SIMI under the Prevention of Unlawful Activities Act was declared an “illegal association” for a period of five years (Upa).

SIMI was first banned in 2001 during the Atal Bihar Vajpayee government and the ban was extended every five years thereafter.

“SIMI was found to be involved in fomenting terrorism, disturbing peace and communal harmony and threatening the sovereignty, security and integrity of Bharat,” Shah said.

The Union Home Ministry in a notification said SIMI has been continuing its subversive activities and regrouping activists who are still absconding; the group is disrupting the secular fabric of the country by creating communal disharmony, spreading anti-national sentiments and by supporting Escalating separatism by militancy and engaging in activities that are detrimental to the integrity and security of the country thereby polluting the minds of the people. the notice said.

(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from associated news agency – PTI)