“DELHI L-G SANCTIONS UAPA PROSECUTION OF ARUNDHATI ROY, HUSSAIN”

Why in the news?

  • Delhi L-G sanctions prosecution of Arundhati Roy and Sheikh Showkat Hussain under UAPA for alleged provocative speeches in 2010.
  • FIR registered following court orders; speeches at “Azadi – The Only Way” conference discussed Kashmir separation from India.
source:scribd 

About Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA):

  • Enacted in 1967 to impose reasonable restrictions on fundamental freedoms.
  • Primary anti-terror legislation post-repeal of TADA and POTA.
  • Defines “unlawful activity” and criteria for designating an “unlawful association.”
  • The 2004 Amendment brought terrorist activities under UAPA.
  • Applies to entire India, including crimes committed outside India.
  • Encompasses Indian citizens, government personnel, and individuals on Indian vessels.
  • Individuals can be designated as terrorists under the 2019 Amendment.
About Lieutenant Governor’s post in India:

  • Constitutional Head: In five of India’s eight union territories.
  • Appointment: By the President of India.
  • Term: Five years, serves at the President’s pleasure.
  • Powers: Similar to a Governor, acts as the constitutional head based on the advice of the Chief Minister and their council of ministers.
  • Presence: Only in Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Delhi, and Puducherry. Other Union Territories have administrators.

Constitutional Articles:

  • Article 239: Administration of UTs by the President through administrators.
  • Article 239AA: Special provisions for Delhi.

Associated Article:

https://universalinstitutions.com/unlawful-activities-prevention-act-uapa-1967/