• UGI USER
  • Jan 03, 2024
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DESIGNATION UNDER UAPA

Why in the News?

  • Goldy Brar, accused in the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, has been declared a designated terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Source: Statista

Understanding ‘Terrorist’ under UAPA:

  • UAPA defines “terrorist act” as any act intending to threaten India’s unity, integrity, security, economic security, or sovereignty.
  • Originally dealing with “unlawful” acts, anti-terror provisions were added in 2004.
  • The 2019 amendment empowers the government to designate an individual as a “terrorist” based on involvement in or preparation for terrorist acts.

Process of Designation and Consequences:

  • Individuals can be designated terrorists through official gazette notifications without a prior opportunity to be heard.
  • The designation may lead to UN-associated sanctions like travel bans and asset freezing, but the 2019 UAPA amendment lacks specific details.
  • The amendment allows individuals to seek a review or challenge the government’s order through a designated committee or legal avenues, respectively.
About UAPA

·   Enacted in 1967, UAPA focuses on preventing unlawful activities and associations in India.

·   Defines unlawful activity as any action aiming to disrupt India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

·   Prescribes severe penalties, including death penalty and life imprisonment, for offenders.