A fresh wave of controversy has hit the Justice and Development Front (JDF), a political group formed by former members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir (JeI). While JDF was launched with the promise of peaceful political engagement and helping to lift the ban on Jamaat, some senior Jamaat leaders are now criticising the group, claiming it has failed to achieve its main goal.
These internal disagreements have raised concerns about unity within the broader Jamaat community and the future direction of JDF’s political journey.
The Background: What is JDF?
The Justice and Development Front was formed in early 2025 by ex-members of Jamaat-e-Islami. The aim was to create a political front that would work within the Indian constitutional framework, contest elections, and help bring Jamaat-e-Islami back into legal and social space after it was banned in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
JDF claimed it would carry forward the ideals and vision of Jamaat—through legal, peaceful, and democratic means. It began taking part in local politics and gained attention in some areas like Kulgam and Pulwama during the 2024 Assembly elections, although it did not win any seats.
The Criticism from Jamaat Seniors
Recently, several senior members of Jamaat-e-Islami have come forward with harsh criticism of JDF’s approach. They accuse the group of:
- Failing to get the Jamaat ban lifted, despite promising to focus on that goal.
- Acting independently without full consultation or approval from the broader Jamaat leadership.
- Allegedly being influenced or used by Indian state agencies, according to rumours circulating in some conservative circles.
These allegations have sparked a wave of internal debate. Some believe JDF has taken a risky path by entering the electoral space while Jamaat remains banned, and worry it could damage the image of the original organisation.
JDF’s Strong Response
In reply to these accusations, JDF leaders have firmly denied all claims. They say the senior Jamaat figures who are now criticising them had already been informed and taken into confidence during the formation of the JDF.
A senior JDF representative said:
“We are deeply hurt by these false accusations. Some unseen and unknown people are putting pressure on respected Jamaat seniors to speak against us. They are wrongly accusing us of working for Indian agencies, which is totally baseless.”
JDF leadership has stressed that:
- They remain committed to the peaceful mission of Jamaat-e-Islami.
- Their political work is aimed at uplifting the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the youth.
- They oppose any form of bloodshed, extremism, or unconstitutional activity.
- Their only goal is to serve the people legally, ethically, and peacefully.
Public Reaction and Political Impact
The disagreement has led to confusion among supporters, especially young people who were hopeful that JDF could become a fresh voice for change within the limits of the law.
Some Jamaat sympathisers are now divided—some support JDF’s political efforts, while others prefer to wait for the ban to be lifted before any political step is taken.
At the same time, mainstream political observers in Kashmir are watching this closely. The entry of JDF could change electoral dynamics, especially in south Kashmir where Jamaat once had strong grassroots support.
Conclusion
The situation reflects a serious moment of reflection for both JDF and the wider Jamaat-e-Islami family. While the goal of reviving Jamaat remains common, the methods and approaches are now under debate.
JDF insists it is working with sincerity, transparency, and within the law. Its leaders say their efforts are not a betrayal but a necessary evolution in difficult times. However, unless dialogue and mutual respect return between the old guard and the new generation, this rift could harm the wider cause both groups claim to support.
“We are not here to divide. We are here to rebuild—peacefully, legally, and faithfully.”
— A JDF Leader
Certainly, here is a balanced and clear paragraph on that point:
From the very beginning, many within Jamaat-e-Islami have been seen as being in too much of a hurry to achieve immediate results. However, for an ideological and long-standing organisation like Jamaat, this approach can be harmful. Such movements require patience, strategic thinking, and long-term vision. The current generation of youth, including those in groups like JDF, should be given space and trust to make efforts through peaceful, legal, and constitutional means. Quick anger or unrealistic expectations can lead to internal divisions and missed opportunities. It is important to stay calm, support one another, and understand that real change takes time, wisdom, and unity.
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