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Current Affairs 2023
NIA Files Chargesheet Against Two in Connection with Udhampur IED Blasts - UPSC Current Affairs
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged two individuals in relation to the Udhampur IED blasts that occurred in September last year, alleging their involvement in attempting to revive terrorist activities in Jammu.
Mar 31, 2023
4 min read
The NIA has filed a chargesheet against two individuals, Mohammed Aslam Sheikh and Mohammed Amin Bhat, in connection with the Udhampur IED blasts that took place in September 2022. The accused have been accused of attempting to revive terrorist activities in Jammu by recruiting from over-ground workers and surrendered terrorists.
According to the NIA, Mr. Bhat, who is currently operating from Pakistan and has been declared a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, recruited the two accused. Mr. Sheikh, who was allegedly instructed by Mr. Bhat, collected explosives smuggled from across the border and configured IEDs.
On September 28, 2022, Mr. Sheikh allegedly planted the bombs in two buses that were traveling between Basnatgarh and Udhampur. Two persons were injured in the blasts. Mr. Sheikh was subsequently arrested, and more explosives were seized from his residence. The NIA has taken over the case and is currently investigating the matter.
The agency has urged members of the public to come forward with any information they may have regarding the blasts and the accused. The NIA has also warned that any person found guilty of involvement in terrorist activities will be prosecuted under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The Udhampur IED blasts highlight the need for increased vigilance in the region, and the NIA's efforts to bring those responsible to justice are commendable.
UPSC Main Exam Question
Discuss the significance of the NIA's role in combating terrorism in India, with reference to the Udhampur blasts case.
Answer: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) plays a crucial role in combating terrorism in India. The Udhampur blasts case, where the NIA charged two people in connection with the IED blasts that occurred in September 2022, highlights the importance of the agency's role in tackling terrorism.
The NIA is responsible for investigating and prosecuting terrorist activities across the country. It has the power to take over any case related to terrorism from state police forces and conduct independent investigations. The agency also works in close coordination with international agencies to tackle cross-border terrorism.
In the Udhampur blasts case, the NIA took over the investigation from the Jammu & Kashmir police and uncovered a larger conspiracy to revive terrorist activities in the region. The accused were allegedly recruited by a person operating from Pakistan and were attempting to carry out future attacks using explosives smuggled from across the border. The NIA's swift action and investigation helped prevent further attacks and bring those responsible to justice.
The NIA's role in combating terrorism is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of the country. It serves as a deterrent to those who attempt to engage in terrorist activities and sends a strong message that such activities will not be tolerated. The agency's coordination with international agencies and the use of advanced technology and techniques also strengthens India's ability to combat terrorism in a global context.
In conclusion, the NIA's role in combating terrorism is of utmost importance for the security of the country. The Udhampur blasts case is a reminder of the agency's crucial role in investigating and preventing terrorist activities. The agency's efforts, along with those of other law enforcement agencies, are necessary to ensure that India remains safe from the threats posed by terrorism.
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