The National Investigation Agency filed a chargesheet against six senior Hurriyat Conference leaders in a 1996 Srinagar mob-violence case. The case matters for UPSC because it combines internal security, separatist politics, and criminal prosecution under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
What happened
The National Investigation Agency named Shabir Ahmad Shah, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Ganie Lone, Javid Ahmad Mir, Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi, and Mohammad Yaqoob Wakeel in the chargesheet. The record also notes that three of the accused died during the proceedings.
The National Investigation Agency said the chargesheet relates to mob violence and indiscriminate firing against police personnel in Srinagar during a funeral procession linked to terrorist Hilal Ahmad Beigh at Naaz Crossing on July 17, 1996. The agency also said the accused allegedly delivered inflammatory speeches with anti-India and secessionist or pro-Pakistan messaging in support of violence and an armed struggle.
Legal significance
The charges invoke provisions of the Ranbir Penal Code for criminal conspiracy, attempt to murder, rioting, and assault on public servants, along with relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. For UPSC, the case is useful because it shows how ordinary penal provisions and anti-terror law can operate together in cases involving organised political violence.
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