New Delhi : 2 NGOs promoted by controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik will soon find it difficult to receive foreign funds. Tightening the screws against Naik, the Home Ministry has initiated the process of cancellation of the licence of one NGO while preparing to put another under “prior permission” list.
The ministry has issued a showcause notice to Naik’s Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) for cancellation of its registration under Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA). This is the final step before the NGO is prohibited from receiving foreign funding. The ministry has also started the process of putting another NGO promoted by Naik, IRF Educational Trust, in prior permission category, thus preventing it from receiving any foreign funds without getting nod from the government. The move came after different investigations found Naik “involved” in utilising funds meant for the NGOs for alleged radicalisation of youth and “inspiring” them into terror activities, official sources said.
The government is also in the process of declaring IRF as an unlawful association under the UAPA and a Cabinet nod is awaited. According to a draft note, based on inputs from Maharashtra Police, Naik has allegedly made provocative speeches and engaged in terror propaganda.
Source : Indian Express
