Srinagar, April 27, KNT: Chairman of Darul Uloom Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom Shopian, Muhammad Shafi Lone, on Monday denied any links between the institution and banned organizations, urging the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to reconsider the decision declaring the seminary unlawful under UAPA.
Speaking to media, Lone said the institution is recognized by JKBOSE and the University of Kashmir and has been associated with the Kashmir Schools Federation since 2025, which he said is part of Kashmir Seva Sangh.
He said the institution had received a notice from the Divisional Commissioner’s office on March 31 and submitted a reply, after which they were awaiting a response. “Today we came to know through media that the seminary has been banned,” he said.
Distancing the institution from Jamaat-e-Islami, Lone requested authorities to constitute a team for a thorough verification. “We are ready for any inquiry. If verification is done, it will be clear that we have no links with any banned organization,” he said.
He said the decision has caused concern among students and staff, adding that 814 students are currently enrolled in the institution, along with 104 staff members.
Lone maintained that the institution has been functioning in accordance with rules and regulations and appealed to the administration to review the decision in light of their response.
He also said the land on which the institution stands belonged to a spiritual figure, Gul Muhammad Sofi, who established the school. [KNT]
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