Budgam Police on Wednesday took a strong step against separatist networks by attaching the head office of the banned group Tehreek-e-Hurriyat at Rehmatabad in Hyderpora under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act 1967. A board has been put up on the wall of the building announcing the attachment. The outfit was founded in 2004 by hardline separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

The property under attachment is a three-storey building standing on 1 kanal 1 marla of land, listed as Khasra No. 946 and Khata No. 306. The building had been functioning as the main office of the banned group. Police said the action is linked to FIR No. 08/2024 registered last year at Budgam Police Station under UAPA.

“In a major action against secessionist and terrorist networks, Budgam Police have attached the head office of the banned organisation Tehreek-e-Hurriyat at Rehmatabad, Hyderpora, under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA)," officials were quoted as saying by PTI.

Police officials said the decision was taken after evidence was gathered and formal approval was secured from the competent authority. They added that this step is part of an ongoing investigation into unlawful and subversive activities and shows the resolve of Budgam Police to counter threats to national security and ensure peace in the region.

“Budgam Police, in coordination with other agencies, will continue to take strict measures against individuals and organisations engaged in activities detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of the Nation," the statement said.

Syed Ali Shah Geelani had formed Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Kashmir after breaking away from Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir in 2002. He parted ways after Jamaat-e-Islami chose to remain silent on the participation of the People’s Conference, a Hurriyat Conference constituent, in elections through proxy candidates.