NIA court issues proclamation against Syed Salahuddin, three others in 1996 terror case

Srinagar, June 10: A special court designated under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act in Srinagar on Wednesday issued a proclamation against Hizbul Mujahideen chief Mohammad Yousuf Shah, popularly known as Syed Salahuddin, and three other accused in connection with a 1996 terror -related case registered by the Crime Investigation Kashmir (CIK).

Additional Sessions Judge (TADA/POTA) and Special Judge designated under the NIA Act, Manjeet Rai, ordered the issuance of a proclamation under Section 84 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, after being satisfied that the accused persons had absconded and were deliberately evading arrest.

The proclamation has been issued against Syed Salahuddin, Ghulam Nabi Khan, Sher Mohammad and Nasir Yousuf Qadri in connection with FIR No. 05/1996 registered at Police Station CIK Srinagar under Sections 121, 121-A, 153-A and 153-B of the Ranbir Penal Code, Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, and Sections 2/3 of E&IMCO.

According to the prosecution, the case was registered on April 5, 1996, following information that Pakistani intelligence agencies were allegedly motivating Kashmiri youth to join militant organisations and undergo training across the border for waging war against India. Investigators alleged that Salahuddin played a leading role in delivering provocative speeches and motivating youth for the purpose.

The court noted that arrest warrants had already been issued against the accused on February 26, 2026. Reports submitted by police, field officers, village officials and local representatives indicated that the accused were no longer residing at their known addresses and were concealing themselves to avoid arrest.

After examining the material placed on record, the court held that the legal requirements for issuance of a proclamation had been met and directed all four accused to appear before the court on or before July 14, 2026.

The court further directed the Investigating Officer and SHO of Police Station CIK Srinagar to ensure publication of the proclamation in accordance with law, including public reading, affixation at the accused persons’ residences and the court premises, and publication in a newspaper circulating in the areas where the accused ordinarily reside.

The investigating agency has been asked to submit a compliance report after completing the proclamation process.