Following the proscription of Popular Front of India (PFI) and its eight affiliates across the country, the police began implementing the ban by conducting search, seizure and closure of PFI offices across the State on Thursday. Its offices in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mandya, Belagavi and several other districts were searched and sealed on Thursday. The police seized books of accounts, computers, hard discs and other electronic materials, books, pamphlets and other printed material, among others, published by PFI, which will be part of the probe now.
Home Minister Araga Jnanendra met with senior police officials, including DG&IGP Praveen Sood, and Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Rajaneesh Goel on Thursday and ordered implementation of the ban in the State.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has delegated the responsibility of implementing the ban to State governments. The Chief Secretary has, in turn, passed on the instructions to Deputy Commissioners and Commissioners of Police in the State. These officials have submitted a report of all premises in their jurisdictions used by PFI and its eight affiliates, to the Home Secretary who on Thursday began notifying these premises under the UAPA, 1967, leading to their sealing down and closure by the police.
