Mumbai: Paving the way for the trial to commence, a court on Monday framed charges against four accused, alleged members of the Popular Front of India (PFI) booked in 2022 by the state’s ATS for conspiring to wage war against union govt and establish an Islamic State with Sharia law by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence.Special Judge Satyanarayan R Navander recorded that the accused would face trial for offences under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. They pleaded not guilty to the charges. Among the accused are Mazhar Khan, Shaikh Isak Qureshi, Mohammad Khan and Moinuddin Momin. Proceedings against Mohammad Adhikari have abated after death.The prosecution case relates to events between Feb 19, 2022 and Sept 22, 2022. The court noted that the alleged activities took place in Mumbai and adjoining areas, including Kurla and Mumbra, as well as other places within and outside Maharashtra. The charge further records that the alleged conspiracy was to “undermine and disrupt the sovereignty, integrity and constitutional authority of India and to overthrow the established constitutional Government by unlawful and violent means.” The court also noted the prosecution allegation that the accused promoted communal hatred, attempted mobilisation and recruitment, and arranged or planned physical, weapons and combat-related training. Under the IPC, the accused are charged with conspiracy to wage war against and overawe govt through radicalisation, recruitment, and preparation for violent attacks. They also face charges for promoting religious enmity and hatred and for destroying or concealing evidence to protect offenders. Additionally, they are charged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for inciting and preparing for activities designed to disrupt India’s sovereignty and overthrow its constitutional system of governance.
