In a significant development in a high-profile case, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has informed a Delhi court that the banned organisation Popular Front of India (PFI) was actively attempting to procure arms and ammunition from neighbouring countries. The revelation was made during a crucial hearing concerning the framing of charges against the accused.
Court Hearing Details and Key Allegations
The submissions were presented before Special Judge (NIA) Prashant Sharma on Saturday, 21 December 2025. The court was engaged in hearing arguments on the formal charges to be framed against 20 accused PFI leaders. The NIA counsel, representing the central anti-terror agency, detailed the alleged conspiracy and efforts by the outfit to strengthen its militant capabilities.
According to the agency's counsel, the investigation has uncovered evidence pointing towards a concerted effort by the PFI to source weapons from countries sharing borders with India. This alleged plan is seen as part of a larger design to further the organisation's objectives, which the Indian government has declared unlawful.
The Legal Proceedings and Accused
The hearing marks a pivotal stage in the legal process where the judge considers the evidence collected by the NIA to decide if there is sufficient ground to proceed with a trial against the accused. The 20 PFI leaders are facing serious charges under various sections of Indian law, including those related to unlawful activities and conspiracy.
The NIA's assertion in court forms a core part of the prosecution's argument to establish the intent and preparatory acts of the accused. The agency has been investigating the PFI's activities and alleged links to terror funding and radicalisation for several years.
Context and National Security Implications
The PFI was banned by the Government of India in 2022 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The government order cited the organisation's alleged involvement in violent and subversive activities that threatened the nation's security and integrity.
The latest disclosure in the Delhi court about attempted arms procurement adds a grave dimension to the existing charges. It underscores the national security concerns that led to the ban. Legal experts suggest that if the court finds merit in the NIA's chargesheet, the accused could face a lengthy trial with severe potential penalties.
The case is being closely monitored as it progresses through the special NIA court. The next steps will involve the judge's decision on framing charges, after which the trial will formally commence. The outcome is expected to have significant repercussions for cases involving banned organisations and the legal fight against activities deemed threatening to state security.
