NIA Expands Investigations Into Terrorism and Human Trafficking on Foreign Soil

The NIA is conducting investigations into six cases abroad, including attacks on Indian embassies and human trafficking. The agency has strengthened measures against terrorism, leading to a reduction in terror incidents and a 95.5% conviction rate for terror-related offenses. The government emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism while addressing historical cases raised by Congress members.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is actively investigating several cases occurring on foreign soil, particularly focusing on attacks against Indian diplomatic missions in London, Ottawa, and San Francisco, as well as human trafficking cases. Currently, the NIA is handling 23 cases relating to human trafficking, bomb blasts, and one related to cybercrime, contributing to the reduction of terrorist acts in the country, as stated by the government official in the Rajya Sabha.

Following the deportation of illegal Indian immigrants from the United States, the NIA conducted interviews that revealed critical insights into the methods employed for human trafficking. Legal actions have been initiated against agents and accomplices engaged in these offenses. The government maintains a stance of zero tolerance towards terrorism, with a significant decline in terror-related incidents attributed to robust legal frameworks and enhanced intelligence coordination.

Significant measures have been undertaken to strengthen the fight against terrorism, including modernization of police forces, reinforcement of border and coastal security, and establishment of special state-level teams along with multi-agency centers for continuous information sharing. Enhanced provisions in the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been implemented, resulting in 57 terrorists being designated as fugitives and 23 organizations being labeled as unlawful.

Moreover, the NIA is investigating cases involving terror financing, the circulation of Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), and trafficking laws. The minister emphasized the stark turnaround in India’s approach to terrorism, noting a 71% decrease in terror cases. The conviction rate for individuals charged with terror-related offenses currently stands at 95.5%.

Congress member Digvijay Singh raised concerns about bomb blasts that occurred between 2006 and 2011, inquiring about the number of government retractions of cases and convictions. He also questioned the absence of those named in the Modasa blast, despite bounties placed on their heads. The minister pointed out that investigations are ongoing and emphasized the importance of examining the time frame in which these incidents occurred.

The NIA’s comprehensive efforts to combat terrorism and human trafficking highlight the government’s firm stance and enhanced collaborative measures. With improved legal frameworks, increased coordination between security agencies, and significant progress in convictions, there has been a noted reduction in terror-related activities. Ongoing investigations signify the government’s commitment to addressing past and present security concerns, emphasizing a proactive and rigorous approach to national safety.

Original Source: m.economictimes.com