Shopian, May 07 (KNO): Hundreds of students and parents associated with the Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom on Thursday staged a protest at the Mini Secretariat here, demanding the reopening of the institution. They expressed deep concern over the uncertain academic future of students after the seminary was sealed under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Carrying placards reading “Save Our Future” and “Open Our School”, the protesters marched peacefully towards the office of the Deputy Commissioner, urging the administration to reconsider the closure and ensure that students preparing for board examinations do not suffer academic losses.
Students said the sudden closure of the institution had disrupted their studies at a crucial stage of the academic session, creating anxiety among hundreds of families across the district.
“We want to continue our studies. Board examinations are approaching, and we are worried about our future,” said a student.
Several parents who joined the demonstration appealed to the authorities to separate the educational interests of students from the allegations levelled against the institution’s management.
“We are concerned about our children’s future. They have already lost valuable time. The government should make arrangements so their education does not suffer,” a protesting parent said.
The protest also witnessed participation from teachers and staff members of the seminary, who demanded revocation of the notification declaring the institution an unlawful entity. Protesters maintained that education was a fundamental right and urged the administration to find a solution that safeguards students’ careers.
Meanwhile, MLA Shopian Shabir Ahmad Kullay visited the protestors and interacted with students and parents.
Speaking to reporters, Kullay said the government had repeatedly issued warnings to the management of the institution over the last two years regarding alleged anti-national and unlawful activities, but the management allegedly failed to respond appropriately.
“The closure of the institute is unfortunate, but the government says it was compelled to act because the management failed to address repeated concerns. However, the future of students must be protected, and the institution should be reformed on modern educational lines,” the MLA said.
Kullay assured the protesters that he would take up the matter with senior government officials to ensure that students are accommodated properly and do not face interruption in their studies.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian Shishir Gupta also met a delegation of parents during the protest and assured them that alternative arrangements would be made for admission of affected students in nearby schools.
According to parents present during the meeting, the DC directed the Chief Education Officer (CEO) to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free admission process for the students so that their academic year is not wasted.
The authorities sealed the premises of Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom at Imam Sahib on April 27 after it was declared a “notified place” under the UAPA.
The action followed an order issued by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg under Section 8(1) of the Act, declaring the institution a place allegedly being used for purposes linked to an unlawful association.
Subsequently, District Magistrate Shopian imposed prohibitory restrictions under Section 8(4) of the UAPA, banning entry into the seminary premises without prior permission from the district administration.
Officials said the action was taken in the interest of public safety and national security, alleging that the institution was linked to activities prejudicial to the sovereignty and integrity of the nation, including alleged radicalisation of youth and financial irregularities—(KNO)