Jamaat-backed independent candidate in J&K campaigns with GPS tracker on ankle

Sikandar Malik, who was arrested in connection with the UAPA case against the banned Jamaat-e-Islami by the National Investigation Agency, is currently out on bail and has been wearing the GPS tracker since the past four months.

In Short

• Sikandar Malik wears GPS tracker due to UAPA case links to Jamaat-e-Islami
• Malik says wearing tracker violates human rights, plans to appeal in court
• He is contesting as an independent candidate from Bandipore

Sikandar Malik, an independent candidate from Bandipore constituency, who is backed by the banned Jamaat-e-Islami organisation, is campaigning for the Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir with a special GPS tracking anklet around his feet.

Notably, the Jamaat cannot officially participate in the polls due to a ban under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) imposed by Home Ministry in 2019 for alleged anti-national activities and links to terrorism. The ban was extended for a further five years earlier this year.

Malik, who was arrested in connection with the UAPA case against the Jamaat by the National Investigation Agency, is currently out on bail and has been wearing the GPS tracker since the past four months.

Talking exclusively to India Today TV, Malik said that he is seeking votes for the development of Bandipore, which includes proper education facilities in the region. He said that if voted to power, he would ensure complete development of Bandipore.

On being asked about the allegations that the Jamaat-e-Islami was deliberately allowed by the BJP to field candidates to cut votes of other parties, he said that they were just rumours by the regional parties. Notably, Malik is a former Jamaat-e-Islami leader.

Talking about the GPS tracker on Malik's feet, he called it a "violation of human rights" and said that he would appeal against it in court.

"I have been told to wear this tracker till the investigation in the UAPA case against Jamaat-e-Islami is going on," he said.

He further said that they would approach the Supreme Court to lift the ban on the Jamaat-e-Islami under the UAPA.

The Jamaat-e-Islami has been accused of supporting separatism in Kashmir, including backing armed and violent protests. After the controversial 1988 Assembly elections, the organisation became associated with separatist movements.

After the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the government cracked down on Jamaat nder the UAPA, arresting leaders and seizing assets.

Over the past year, the organisation has shown a shift in stance, moving away from boycotting elections to actively supporting independent candidates.

Three phases of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections are already over and the last phase of voting will take place on October 1. The results will be declared on October 8.