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The Hindu
a day ago
- Politics
- The Hindu
Bombay High Court grants bail to three PFI accused, cites lack of prima facie evidence of terrorism
The Aurangabad Bench of the Bombay High Court has granted bail to three accused persons associated with the Popular Front of India (PFI), observing that mere participation in meetings, speeches or karate training sessions cannot, prima facie, be construed as committing a terrorist act under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). A Division Bench comprising Justices Nitin B. Suryawanshi and Sandipkumar C. More passed the order while hearing criminal appeals filed by Sayyad Faisal Sayyad Khaleel, Abdul Hadi, and Shaikh Irfan Shaikh Salim alias Irfan Milli, who had been denied bail by the trial court in a case registered under the UAPA, the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Arms Act, and the Maharashtra Police Act. Also read: Devendra Fadnavis calls PFI a 'silent killer', says will work towards shutting down outfit in Maharashtra 'When the FIR was registered and appellants were arrested, PFI was not declared a terrorist organisation within the meaning of Section 2(m) of UAPA. Merely because appellants participated in the meetings, seminars or physical training of karate etc., prima facie, it cannot be said that they have indulged in any terrorist act,' the Bench observed. In its detailed order, the court noted that mere participation in seminars or camps would not, prima facie, amount to a terrorist act. 'Though, weapons are recovered from appellant, it is not the case of prosecution that those were used for any terrorist activity and/or for toppling the Government,' the order stated. Background of the Case On September 21, 2022, Assistant Police Inspector Rahul Rode of the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Aurangabad, lodged an FIR based on secret information alleging that a karate training camp for Muslim youth was held on November 23, 2021, near Jama Masjid in Chikalthana, under the banner 'Healthy People Healthy Nation'. It was alleged that PFI Secretary Mohsin Nadvi delivered a speech stating that Muslims in India were facing mob lynching and attacks by Hindu organisations, and urged physical preparedness in view of such challenges. A similar gathering was reportedly held on November 27, 2021, at Samosa Ground, Katkat Gate, where PFI's Aurangabad district president Irfan Milli and General Secretary Saber addressed the attendees. They allegedly accused the Central Government of conspiring against Muslims and called for armed resistance, urging the youth to join the PFI in large numbers. According to intelligence inputs received on July 3 and 4, 2022, a secret arms and physical training camp was held by the PFI at a hall near Masjid-a-Mansab Mir in Naregaon. The camp, allegedly attended by district president Imran Shaha and select trainees, was said to involve preparations to fight the Indian Government in defence of their religion. It was further alleged that PFI committee members Sayyad Faisal Sayyad Khaleel (Aurangabad), Abdul Hadi (Jalna), and Parvez Khan (Aurangabad) delivered inflammatory speeches criticising the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), the National Register of Citizens (NRC), the Hijab ban, and the ban on Triple Talaq, characterising them as anti-Muslim. The speeches allegedly incited unrest and called for armed jihad. On August 14, 2022, a gathering of Ulema was reportedly held under the 'Save The Republic' campaign, attended by Maulana Irfan Milli and Maulana Nasir Nadvi. At the event, the speakers allegedly criticised the Central Government, claiming that Muslims were being harassed through the NRC and that 20 lakh Muslims were being targeted for elimination. It was further alleged that they spoke about establishing a Sharia-based government and called on Muslim youth to stockpile weapons, even suggesting foreign assistance if necessary. Following these developments, an FIR was registered at the ATS Kalachowki Police Station in Mumbai, invoking Sections 13(1)(b) of the UAPA; Sections 121A, 153A, 120B, 109, 116, and 201 of the IPC; Section 4 read with Section 25 of the Arms Act; and Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act. The petitioners were arrested on September 22, 2022. During the investigation, authorities allegedly recovered material linking them to ISIS, including a document titled 'India 2047: Towards Rule of Islam in India (Internal Document - Not for Circulation)' from Sayyad Faisal, along with an Urdu book titled 'Babri Masjid Kahi Hum Bhul Na Jaye' (Lest we forget the Babri mosque). In February 2023, a chargesheet was filed under Sections 121A, 122, 153A, 120B, 109, 116, and 201 of the IPC; Section 13(1)(b) of the UAPA; Section 4 read with Section 25 of the Arms Act; and Section 135 of the Maharashtra Police Act. The Arguments Appearing for the petitioners, Advocate N.R. Shaikh submitted that the FIR was lodged on September 21, 2022, and arrests made on the following day - prior to PFI being declared an unlawful organisation on September 27, 2022. Therefore, he argued, no offence under the UAPA could be invoked at the time. He contended that no incriminating material or overt act of terrorism was attributed to the appellants, and that only literature had been recovered from their electronic devices. Teaching karate, he argued, does not constitute terrorism under the UAPA. While ₹8 lakh was found in one account, it was not linked to any terror-related activity, he added. He also pointed out that the appellants had spent more than two years in custody and that only five out of 145 witnesses had been examined, indicating slim chances of an early conclusion of trial. Advocate Javed R. Shaikh, appearing for Shaikh Irfan, added that although a seven-inch knife, a Rampuri knife, a 'fighter', and a 1.5-foot sword were recovered from his client, there was no evidence to suggest these were used in any attempt to overthrow the government. At most, he argued, the matter would fall under the Arms Act, which prescribes a maximum sentence of two years - less than the duration already spent by the accused in custody. Opposing the appeals, Additional Public Prosecutor Kalpalata Patil Bharaswadkar submitted that the accused were involved in unlawful activities that threatened national security. Describing PFI as a radical organisation engaged in seditious acts and secret meetings, the Additional Public Prosecutor also cited the 'Mission 2047' document recovered from Sayyad Faisal as indicative of a larger conspiracy. Court Observations The Bench refrained from commenting on the merits of the allegations, given that the trial was still ongoing. However, it observed, 'On the ground of parity also the appellants are entitled for bail. Prima facie, we do not find reasonable grounds for believing that accusations against the accused are true. Therefore, mandate contained in proviso to Section 43(D)(5) would not be applicable to the case of the accused. The prosecution could not point out criminal antecedents of appellants. Section 13(1)(b) prescribes maximum punishment of seven years, out of which appellants have already undergone two years and eight months imprisonment.' Noting that all three accused had spent over two years and eight months in custody while only five of 145 prosecution witnesses had been examined, the court emphasised the importance of a speedy trial as guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution. The Bench directed the Special Court to release the appellants on bail under appropriate and stringent conditions, including surrendering their passports and full cooperation with the ongoing trial.
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Exhibit showcases new media art
The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) is hosting Seeing, (Seen): Reframing the Moving Image in Pakistan, a groundbreaking exhibition bringing together artists from Pakistan and the UK to explore the transformative potential of the moving image as a medium of resistance, disruption and reimagination. Seeing, (Seen) engages with themes of memory, identity, and temporality, positioning the moving image as a fluid, uncontained force in contemporary visual culture. It contributes to the evolving discourse on new media and experimental art within Pakistan's unique cultural context. The exhibition features works by prominent Pakistani artists Abdul Hadi, Farida Batool, Kaiser Irfan, Mahnoor Ali Shah, M4HK, Rabeeha Adnan and Ujala Khan, alongside UK-based artist duo John Wood and Paul Harrison, with additional selections from the British Council Art Collection. A dynamic public programme will run throughout the exhibition, including artist talks, panel discussions, workshops, lectures and presentations focused on film, media, identity, and perception. Curated by Islamabad based curator and designer Sarah Rajper, the exhibition reframes film, video and new media as powerful tools for questioning how we see, sense and experience the world. The exhibition is the culmination of Rajper's participation in the prestigious Art Exchange: Moving Image curatorial fellowship - a year-long international programme, supported by the British Council and organised by LUX (UK) and Art South Asia Project. The fellowship included opportunities for mentorship, critical exchange and research visits to major UK institutions such as Tate Modern, Somerset House, Barbican Centre and the British Film Institute. The exhibition opens with a public reception on 30 July 2025, from 4.00pm to 8.00pm, featuring the Artist Panel Discussion from 6.00pm to 7.00pm, and will remain on view until 8 August 2025. Daily viewing hours are 10.00am to 4.00pm (closed Saturdays) at PNCA, Islamabad. Organised in partnership with the Lahore Digital Arts Festival and PNCA, this cross-cultural showcase offers audiences a chance to engage with boundary-pushing work at the intersection of art, technology and social commentary.
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Five-year-old victim of Chilas flood buried
The funeral prayer for five-year-old Abdul Hadi, who lost his life in the Chilas flash flood incident, was held in Lodhran after his body was recovered following a four-day search operation. The child was laid to rest beside his mother and uncle in the local graveyard of Adda Wahin, amidst emotional scenes and collective prayers. Abdul Hadi, son of Saad Islam, was one of the three family members who perished in the devastating flood that struck the Lodhran-based Mian Islam family near Chilas while they were returning from a recreational tour of Gilgit-Baltistan. The funeral prayer was offered at the grounds of Shahida Islam Medical College, where district officials, members of civil society, and a large number of local residents gathered to pay their respects. Deputy Commissioner Dr Lubna Nazir extended condolences to Abdul Hadi's father, Saad Islam, and grandmother, and also visited Mian Islam at the ICU to check on his condition. Earlier, funeral prayers for other victims — Fahad Islam, Director of Shahida Islam Medical College, and Dr Mishal Fatima, wife of Saad Islam — were also held at the same venue. Their burials took place in Adda Wahin's local cemetery. The funeral prayer was led by former federal minister Pir Syed Hamid Saeed Kazmi and was attended by prominent personalities, including family members of Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, sitting and former members of parliament, Deputy Commissioner, DPO, and medical professionals from across Punjab. The Mian Islam family, owners of Shahida Islam Medical & Teaching Hospital, had embarked on a family trip with 15 members — including Mian Islam, his wife Shahida, sons Fahad and Saad with their spouses and children, daughters Zainab and Faiza (visiting from the UK), her husband Muhammad Waheed, their three children and two household staff members — accompanied by two coaster drivers. Their vehicle was swept away by a sudden flash flood near Chilas. The bodies of Fahad Islam and Dr. Mishal were recovered earlier, while Abdul Hadi's body was found after four days. Shahida Islam Medical College remains in mourning, where Quran recitations were held throughout the week in memory of the deceased.
New Straits Times
7 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Langkawi Rahmah package: 3D2N stay, jet ski & more for RM500
LANGKAWI: Travellers can now enjoy a three-day, two-night (3D2N) getaway in Langkawi, complete with five exclusive activities, for as little as RM500 under a newly launched Rahmah tourism package. The package, introduced by Tourism Malaysia's Northern Region office in collaboration with local tourism operators, takes effect immediately. Tourism Malaysia Northern Region director Abdul Hadi Che Man said the initiative also supported the Visit Kedah Year 2025 campaign and sets the stage for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. "This package offers affordable rates inclusive of 3D2N accommodation and at least five curated, exclusive experiences with an emphasis on holistic health tourism. It promotes both physical wellness and emotional well-being," he said at the launch of the second edition of the Langkawi Tourism Package at Hotel Goldsand yesterday. Among the featured activities are visits to Maha Tower and the Langkawi National Art Gallery, island-hopping via jet ski, and marine foraging experiences such as catching sea cucumbers and crabs. Abdul Hadi said the package was developed in close consultation with strategic partners following a three-day familiarisation trip. "With direct international flights now connecting Langkawi to Bengaluru via IndiGo and to the United Arab Emirates via Flydubai, we are confident this package will also appeal to tourists from India and the Middle East," he said.
Fintech News ME
15-07-2025
- Business
- Fintech News ME
Bahaa Abdul Hadi to Lead New MENA Fintech Association Chapter in Iraq
The MENA Fintech Association (MFTA), a not-for-profit organisation supporting fintech innovation across the Middle East and Africa, has launched its Iraq Chapter. Bahaa Abdul Hadi, an Iraqi-Canadian entrepreneur and fintech figure, has been appointed as Chapter Chair. He will lead efforts to advance digital financial services in Iraq and strengthen compliance with international standards. The launch comes amid a period of rapid change in Iraq's financial sector, driven by digital banking, mobile payments, and regulatory reform. The recent introduction of the Central Bank of Iraq's Digital Payment Regulation No. 2 of 2024 aims to reduce reliance on cash, improve transparency, and encourage broader use of digital payment systems. Supported by the Central Bank and the United Nations Development Programme, the regulation is part of wider efforts to modernise Iraq's financial infrastructure and expand access to financial services. Bahaa Abdul Hadi is known for co-founding International Smart Card (ISC) in 2009, the company behind Qi Card, a biometric payment solution that has played a central role in Iraq's digital payments landscape. Under his leadership, ISC has become a key player in promoting financial inclusion and delivering digital services across both public and private sectors. 'The future of Iraq is digital, and fintech is at the heart of this transformation,' said Abdul Hadi. 'Through the MFTA Iraq Chapter, we are creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and financial empowerment. By working closely with regulators, financial institutions, and technology innovators, we aim to drive the adoption of secure and efficient digital payment solutions that serve the needs of the Iraqi people and businesses.' The MENA Fintech Association currently includes over 22,000 members across countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, and Ivory Coast. Its country chapters, including MFTA Bahrain, MFTA Saudi, MFTA Qatar, and MFTA Africa, engage with regulators and stakeholders to shape fintech policy and market development across the region. Nameer Khan, Chairman of the MENA Fintech Association, said: 'Iraq's fintech transformation is a pivotal step toward a digitally inclusive and resilient economy. The launch of MFTA Iraq is more than expansion, it is about positioning Iraq as a key player in the region's fintech evolution. With increasing digital adoption and regulatory progress, Iraq has an opportunity to leapfrog into a thriving fintech hub.' The MFTA Iraq Chapter is expected to release its 2025 roadmap in the coming weeks, outlining its priorities in regulatory development, digital banking, and inclusive finance.
