The National Investigating Agency (NIA) has taken up the probe into the attacks on Indian missions in the United States and Canada carried out by Khalistan sympathisers.
The National Investigative Agency (NIA)
(1) Establishment and Mandate
- In response to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the NIA was founded in December 2008.
- It is governed by the National Investigation Agency Act.
- It is in charge of investigating terrorism-related offences, the smuggling of arms, drugs, counterfeit cash, and cross-border infiltration.
(2) Jurisdiction and Powers
- The NIA has authority over the whole country of India, including Indian people living abroad, government employees, and individuals aboard Indian-registered ships and aircraft.
- It has broad authority to search, seize, arrest, and punish persons who commit scheduled offences under different acts, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Indian Penal Code.
(3) Scheduled Offenses:
- The NIA investigates offences mentioned in the NIA Act’s schedule, which includes acts involving explosives, hijacking, illicit activities, terrorism, marine navigation safety, and others.
- In 2020, the NIA was given authority to investigate Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act violations related to terrorism cases.
The NIA’s Operational Procedures
- State governments may send instances involving scheduled offences to the Union Home Ministry, which may subsequently direct the NIA to take over the investigation. If the Central Government feels a scheduled offence has been committed, it can also launch an investigation on its own.
- Assistance and Cooperation: State governments must cooperate fully with the NIA during investigations. This involves sharing information, giving logistical support, and assisting with suspect apprehension and conviction. The NIA relies on the combined efforts of state and federal entities to conduct a thorough and effective investigation.
- Proactive Investigations: The NIA has the jurisdiction to examine cases involving scheduled offences in order to prevent and forestall acts of terrorism and other serious crimes. This proactive approach enables the agency to identify and neutralise threats in real time, so protecting national security.
Investigating the recent Attacks
- Attacks on Indian Missions in the United States and Canada: In March, supporters of Khalistan targeted Indian Missions in the United States and Canada. Protesters stormed the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, destroying temporary security barriers and hoisting Khalistani flags inside.
- Violent Protests at the Indian High Commission in London: During their demonstrations, pro-Khalistani protestors attempted to vandalise the Indian High Commission in London and removed the national flag.
Source: https://swarajyamag.com/news-brief/nia-to-investigate-khalistan-supporters-attacks-on-indian-missions#:~:text=The%20investigation%20has%20now%20been,personnel%20promptly%20removed%20the%20flags.