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Probe into Kappan’s detention
Why is it in News?
- The Kerala Union of Working Journalists (KUWJ) seeks a probe into Journalist Sidhique Kappan illegal detention by UP government.
Details:
- KUWJ asked SC to order an “independent enquiry” by a retired Supreme Court judge.
- Kappan had been under detention for 56 days and was arrested when he was on the way to cover Hathras Rape case under Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
- About UAPA:
(1) UAPA 1967: It was enacted by the Indira Gandhi government in 1967. Its main purpose was to deal with secessionist movements and protect the integrity of the nation.
(2) 2004 Amendment: After the repeated misuse of Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act and the Prevention of Terrorism Act were repealed. Then UAPA act was amended to deal with terrorist organisations.
- 2019 UAPA Amendment: It gives power to designate individual as terrorist.
(1) Approval for seizure of property by NIA:
(a) An investigating officer is required to obtain the prior approval of the Director General of Police to seize properties that may be connected with terrorism.
(b) If the investigation is conducted by an officer of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), the approval of the Director General of NIA would be required for seizure of such property.
(2) Investigation by NIA: Empowers the officers of the NIA, of the rank of Inspector or above, to investigate cases.
(3) Insertion to schedule of treaties:
(a) The Schedule lists nine treaties, including the Convention for the Suppression of Terrorist Bombings (1997), and the Convention against Taking of Hostages (1979).
(b) International Convention for Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (2005) is recently added.