Delhi High Court Issues Notice To NIA In Ibrahim Puthanathani Bail Petition

The Delhi High Court has issued a notice to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) regarding a bail petition filed by former Popular Front of India (PFI) national convener Ibrahim Puthanathani. The court is set to hear the case next on November 11.

Puthanathani had previously sought bail from a lower court, which denied his request. In his appeal to the Delhi High Court, he is contesting that decision. The NIA has alleged that PFI, along with its officials and members, conspired to raise funds for terrorist activities across the country and operated training camps to prepare their members for these acts.

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Authorities arrested Ibrahim Puthanathani in April 2022 during nationwide raids targeting PFI hideouts. Following these events, the government officially banned the PFI in September 2022, issuing a notification on September 27 through the Union Home Ministry. The notification classified PFI and its affiliates as illegal associations for a duration of five years, effective immediately.

The government invoked powers under Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to not only ban PFI but also several other organizations, including the All India Imam Council, National Confederation of Human Rights Organisations, Rehab Foundation India, and the National Women’s Front, among others.