National Investigation Agency (NIA)- UPSC Current Affairs

In today’s edition of our Current Affairs Dialog box, we will discuss National Investigation Agency (NIA). Navigate through the blog to understand the topic in detail and enhance your UPSC CSE Preparation Online.

For Prelims: NIA, Statutory body, Ministry of Home Affairs

For Mains: Internal Security, Terrorism, Speedy trials 

Context

Recently, the cases of murders in Rajasthan and Maharashtra have been handed over to NIA by Union Home Ministry. 

About National Investigation Agency (NIA)

• It is a statutory body, constituted under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, 2008.
• It is functioning as the Central Counter-Terrorism Law Enforcement Agency in India under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Headquarters: Delhi
• Background: NIA was set up in wake of the rising incidence of large-scale terrorism, the smuggling of arms and drugs, pushing in and circulation of fake Indian currency, infiltration from across the borders, etc.
• Major Reason for NIA Establishment: The Mumbai terror attack “26/11” in 2008 was the major reason that the government decided for establishing the NIA.

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Aim of NIA

• It aims to be a thoroughly professional investigative agency matching the best international standards.
•  It aims to set the standards of excellence in counter terrorism and other national security related investigations at the national level by developing into a highly trained, partnership-oriented workforce.
• It aims at creating deterrence for existing and potential terrorist groups/individuals. 
• It aims to develop as a storehouse of all terrorists related information.

Major Goals of NIA

• Ensuring an effective and speedy trial.
• Developing a professional workforce through regular training and exposure to the best practices and procedures.
• Displaying scientific temper and progressive spirit.
• Inducting modern methods and the latest technology.
• Assist all States and other investigating agencies in the investigation of terrorist cases.
• Build a database of all terrorist-related information to share with the States and other agencies.
• To win the confidence of the citizens of India through selfless and fearless endeavors.

Applicability of NIA Act, 2008

This Act is applicable to:

• the whole country.

• Indian citizens residing outside the country.
• Persons in service of government and on ships and aircraft registered in India.
• A person who commits scheduled offenses against an Indian citizen or affects the interest of India.

Powers of the NIA

• Section 6 of the NIA Act provides the ways NIA takes up a probe.
• NIA can take suo motu cognizance of terror activities in any part of India and register a case, to enter any state without permission from the state government.
• It can take a probe, arrest, seize, and even prosecute those who commit or are involved in the offense.
• The Central government on its own can also transfer the cases to the NIA for investigation depending upon the gravity of the crime and the significance of its impacts.

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Recent Amendments

• The NIA (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by Parliament.
• The Bill allows the NIA to investigate the following additional offenses:
  • Any Offenses under the Explosive Substances Act, 1908
  • Cyber-terrorism
  • Human trafficking
  • Manufacture or sale of prohibited arms
  • Related Offenses to counterfeit currency or banknotes

Source: The Hindu

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