• UGI USER
  • Feb 05, 2024
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TACKLE DAMAGE TO PROPERTY

Why in the News?

  • Introduction of heavy fines equal to the market value of damaged public property.
  • Amendment of Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984, and consideration of new laws.
Source: Brainly

Recommendation in Amendments:

  • Recognition of destruction of public property during protests, riots, and agitations.
  • Compelling offenders to deposit estimated value of public property for bail.
  • Proposal for a comprehensive law to tackle wilful obstruction of public spaces and roads.
  • Retaining Criminal Defamation as an Offence
  • Need to balance open discourse and protection against malicious falsehoods.
  • Introduction of community service as an alternate punishment to safeguard against misuse.
About Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, 1984

·   This act , penalizes acts of mischief against public property with up to five years in jail or fines.

·   It covers various infrastructure like water, power, transportation, and telecommunications.

K T Thomas Committee :

·   In 2007, the Supreme Court formed committees, like the one led by Justice K T Thomas, to propose amendments.

·   Recommendations included requiring prosecution to prove involvement in direct action for property damage.