NIA CHARGES TWO IN IS TERROR CONSPIRACY CASE

Why in the news?

  • The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a charge sheet against two individuals, including a Libya-based terrorist, in connection with an IS terror conspiracy in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (Aurangabad).
  • The accused, Mohammed Zoheb Khan, arrested in February, and Libya-based Mohammed Shoeb Khan, are charged with promoting IS’s anti-India agenda.
  • They are charged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
NIA CHARGES TWO IN IS TERROR CONSPIRACY CASE - UPSC TOPICsource:slideshare

About The National Investigation Agency (NIA):

  • NIA is India’s premier counter-terrorism agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Established: post-2008 Mumbai attacks via the NIA Act,
  • Headquarters: in New Delhi with 18 branch offices nationwide.
  • Investigates offences threatening India’s sovereignty, security, and international relations.
  • Mandate expanded in 2019 to cover human trafficking, cyber-terrorism, and more.
  • Jurisdiction extends across states without state permission.
  • Empowered to investigate scheduled offences globally under international treaties.
  • Special Courts designated nationwide for speedy trials of NIA cases.
About Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA):

  • UAPA was enacted in 1967 to curb unlawful activities threatening national security.
  • Primary anti-terror legislation post-repeal of TADA and POTA.
  • Defines ‘unlawful activity‘ and ‘terrorist acts’, regulates terrorist organisations.
  • Amended :in 2004 to include terrorist activities; 2019 gave power to designate individuals as terrorists.
  • Applies nationwide and to Indian citizens globally.

Associated Article:

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