National Investigation Agency (NIA) special court in Srinagar formally declared Syed Mohammad Yusuf Shah—commonly known as Syed Salahuddin, the Pakistan‑based leader of Hizbul Mujahideen—a proclaimed offender under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
A warrant had previously been issued, but authorities reported that Salahuddin could not be located and appears to be deliberately evading arrest.
Legal Basis and Court Orders
- The court framed charges under Sections 13 and 18 of the UAPA and Section 505 of the Ranbir Penal Code (RPC), in connection with a case registered at Zakura Police Station, Srinagar.
- A proclamation was issued, mandating Salahuddin’s appearance before the court by August 30, 2025. Failure to comply may trigger further legal actions, including property attachment proceedings under Sections 82/83 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Public Appeal
Srinagar Police has appealed to citizens for any credible information regarding Salahuddin’s whereabouts and urged public cooperation to uphold justice and safety.
Who Is Syed Salahuddin?
- Born in 1946 in Soibugh, Badgam (then British India), Syed Mohammad Yusuf Shah is the long-time leader of Hizbul Mujahideen, a militant group operating in Jammu & Kashmir.
- He also heads the United Jihad Council, a Pakistan‑based coalition of militant groups aligned under ISI sponsorship, dedicated to Kashmiri insurgency efforts.
- Salahuddin is listed by India’s NIA as a Most Wanted fugitive, and is designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the U.S. Department of State.
Significance & Implications
- Officially declaring Salahuddin a proclaimed offender marks an escalation in the Indian legal initiative to bring him to justice. Such status enables legal provisions like issuing letters rogatory for international cooperation, property seizure, and sanction measures.
- The court’s orders reflect a decisive stance to counter cross‑border terrorism and militant leadership sheltering abroad.
Behind the Spotlight
- The NIA’s case alleges Salahuddin’s involvement in terror funding, recruitment, and conspiracy operations in Indian-administered Kashmir.
- Despite open warrants and international notices, he remains at large, believed to be operating from Pakistan or Pakistan‑occupied Kashmir, circumventing Indian legal jurisdiction.
