Centre Extends Zakir Naik’s Islamic Research Foundation Ban for Another Five Years

The Home Ministry has extended the ban on the Islamic Research Foundation under UAPA, citing concerns over national security, sovereignty and communal harmony.

By All India Story

13 Nov 2026, 12:52 PM IST 2 min read

Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, founder of the Islamic Research Foundation, whose organisation faces an extended five-year ban. — The Centre has extended restrictions on Zakir Naik-founded Islamic Research Foundation for another five years.

The Zakir Naik Islamic Research Foundation ban has been extended for another five years by the Central Government, with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) declaring the organisation an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.

In a notification issued on November 13, the Centre said the activities of the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF) posed a threat to India's sovereignty, integrity and security. The decision marks the third extension of restrictions on the organisation since it was first banned in 2016.

The Home Ministry cited statements and activities associated with the foundation's founder, Islamic preacher Dr Zakir Naik, as key reasons for continuing the restrictions.

Why Has the Government Extended the Ban?

According to the MHA notification, Naik's speeches and statements were considered objectionable and were said to have the potential to create disharmony among communities.

The ministry alleged that his remarks promoted hatred and hostility between different religious groups. The Centre also expressed concern that the organisation could resume its activities if the ban was not extended.

The government maintained that continuing the restrictions was necessary to prevent such activities and protect national security.

Islamic Research Foundation Was First Banned in 2016

Founded in Mumbai in February 1991, the Islamic Research Foundation is a non-profit organisation established by Zakir Naik.

The organisation has faced several allegations, including radicalising young people, promoting activities considered detrimental to national security and involvement in money laundering.

The latest decision continues the restrictions imposed on the foundation under the UAPA. With this extension, the organisation remains subject to the unlawful association designation for another five years.

The Centre's notification places national security and concerns over communal harmony at the centre of its decision to maintain the ban.

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