Daily Current Affairs : 1-March-2024

Recently, the Indian government determined to extend the ban on the organization called Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir for another five years. This extension is based on the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967. The preliminary declaration of Jamaat-e-Islami as an unlawful association was made on February 28, 2019. The organization has been accused of promoting terrorism and spreading anti-India sentiments, which has contributed to feelings of separation within the Jammu and Kashmir region.

Understanding ‘Unlawful Association’

An Unlawful Association is an organization that the government considers illegal. This classification is based on the group’s involvement in activities that threaten national security or the integrity of the state. When a group is labeled as unlawful, it faces severe restrictions on its activities and can be subject to legal action.

Key Points:
  • An unlawful association can lead to arrests and investigations.
  • Membership in such a group may be criminalized.
  • The government aims to protect national security through these measures.

What is the UAPA?

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was enacted in India in 1967 to combat terrorism and prevent unlawful activities. This law gives the central government significant powers to act against organizations and individuals deemed a threat.

Key Features of UAPA:
  • Applicability: It applies to both Indian and foreign nationals, irrespective of where the crime occurs.
  • Severe Penalties: The law allows for harsh punishments, including life imprisonment and the death penalty.
  • Investigation Timeline: Authorities must file charges within 180 days of arrest, but this can be extended with court approval.
  • Property Seizures: Amendments made in 2019 allow the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to seize property related to terrorism cases.
  • Investigation Authority: NIA officers of certain ranks can investigate terrorism cases.
  • Designation of Terrorists: The law also allows for individuals to be officially designated as terrorists.

Important Points:

Ban Extension: The Indian government extended the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).Initial Declaration: The organization was initially declared unlawful on February 28, 2019.Accusations: Jamaat-e-Islami is accused of promoting terrorism and anti-India sentiments, contributing to separatist feelings in Jammu and Kashmir.Definition of Unlawful Association: An organization deemed illegal due to activities threatening national security and integrity.Legal Consequences: Membership in an unlawful association can lead to arrests and investigations.UAPA Overview: Enacted in 1967, UAPA empowers the government to combat terrorism and unlawful activities.Key Features of UAPA:

  • Applicability: Applies to both Indian and foreign nationals, regardless of where the crime occurs.
  • Severe Penalties: Includes life imprisonment and the death penalty.
  • Investigation Timeline: Charges must be filed within 180 days of arrest, with possible extensions.
  • Property Seizures: Allows NIA to seize property related to terrorism cases.
  • Investigation Authority: NIA officers of specific ranks can investigate terrorism cases.
  • Designation of Terrorists: Individuals can be officially designated as terrorists.

Why In News

The government has extended the ban on ‘Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir’ as an ‘Unlawful Association’ for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967, citing ongoing concerns about the group’s role in fostering terrorism and promoting anti-India sentiments.

MCQs about Extension of Ban on Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir

  1. What is the primary reason for the extension of the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir?
    A. Economic issues in Jammu and Kashmir
    B. Allegations of promoting terrorism and anti-India sentiments
    C. Environmental concerns
    D. Cultural differences
    Correct Answer: B. Allegations of promoting terrorism and anti-India sentiments
    Explanation: The government extended the ban primarily due to concerns about the organization’s involvement in fostering terrorism and spreading anti-India sentiments.
  2. Under which law was Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu Kashmir declared an unlawful association?
    A. Indian Penal Code (IPC)
    B. Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA)
    C. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
    D. National Security Act (NSA)
    Correct Answer: C. Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)
    Explanation: The organization was declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) of 1967.
  3. What does the term ‘Unlawful Association’ refer to?
    A. Any group opposing the government
    B. An organization deemed illegal due to activities threatening national security
    C. A registered political party
    D. A community service organization
    Correct Answer: B. An organization deemed illegal due to activities threatening national security
    Explanation: An ‘Unlawful Association’ is defined as an organization that the government considers illegal because its activities pose a threat to national security and integrity.
  4. Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA)?
    A. Applicability to both Indian and foreign nationals
    B. Mandatory life imprisonment for all offenses
    C. Authority for property seizures related to terrorism
    D. Designation of individuals as terrorists
    Correct Answer: B. Mandatory life imprisonment for all offenses
    Explanation: While UAPA allows for severe penalties, including life imprisonment, it does not mandate life imprisonment for all offenses. The penalties depend on the specific circumstances of each case.

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