NIA Seeks Life Term for Asiya Andrabi and Two Associates
New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency has sought life imprisonment for Kashmiri separatist leader Asiya Andrabi and her two associates Nahida Nasreen and Sofi Fehmeeda after their conviction in a terror-related case.
Andrabi, the chief of the banned organisation Dukhtaran-e-Millat, was convicted by a special court in New Delhi on January 14, 2026 under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Charges Against the Accused
According to the prosecution, the three women were involved in activities linked to secessionist propaganda and terror conspiracy. The charges included:
- Conspiracy to wage war against India under IPC Section 121A
- Promoting separatist activities in Jammu and Kashmir
- Maintaining links with Pakistan-based militant figures
- Delivering speeches and using social media for anti-India propaganda
The case also alleged connections with Pakistan-based militant groups, including references to Hafiz Saeed.
NIA’s Argument in Court
During arguments on the quantum of sentence, the NIA told the court that the accused were part of a “deep-rooted conspiracy” against the Indian state.
The agency said Andrabi and her associates were well-educated individuals who used their influence to promote separatist ideology and anti-national activities.
The prosecution requested the court to award life imprisonment under relevant sections of the law, arguing that strict punishment was necessary to send a strong deterrent message against conspiracies against the state.
Court Proceedings
The sentencing arguments were heard before Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh in New Delhi. The court has reserved its order on sentencing, which is expected to be announced on March 24, 2026.
While the accused were convicted on several counts, reports indicate that the court acquitted them of the most serious charge of actually waging war against India, though the conspiracy charge remains.
Background of the Case
Asiya Andrabi has been a prominent figure in Kashmiri separatist politics for decades. She was arrested in 2018 during a terror-funding investigation and has faced multiple cases related to separatist activities.
Her organisation, Dukhtaran-e-Millat, has long advocated the implementation of Sharia law in Kashmir and merger with Pakistan.
The final decision on sentencing will be delivered by the court later this month.
You Might Also Like:
Man Tries to Kill Farooq Abdullah at Jammu Event, Arrested by Security
Supreme Court Grants Bail to Shabir Shah in 2017 Terror-Funding Case, Cites Delay in Trial