Analysis of UAPA Arrests: A Closer Look at Convictions and Concerns

Overview of UAPA Arrests from 2019 to 2023

Between 2019 and 2023, a total of 10,440 individuals were detained under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), as reported by the Union government to Parliament. Out of these arrests, only 335 resulted in convictions under this anti-terrorism legislation.

Jammu and Kashmir recorded the highest number of arrests during this timeframe, totaling 3,662, yet only 23 of these cases led to convictions, according to data presented in the Lok Sabha on December 2 by Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai.

Following Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh had the second highest arrest count with 2,805 individuals detained, resulting in 222 convictions under the UAPA from 2019 to 2023.

Other states that reported significant arrest figures include Assam, Manipur, and Jharkhand.

Understanding the UAPA

The Unlawful Activities Prevention Act empowers the Union government to label individuals or organizations as 'unlawful' and outlines penalties for terrorist activities. Established in 1967, this law grants investigative agencies a period of 180 days to investigate a case, which is notably longer than the 60 to 90 days typically allowed under standard criminal law.

Additionally, obtaining bail for those charged under the UAPA is generally more challenging.

The law defines unlawful activity as any action by an individual or group that undermines or questions the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India or incites disaffection against the nation.

In recent years, activists and legal professionals have voiced concerns regarding the rising number of UAPA cases targeting government critics. While the law's intent is to combat terrorism, it has been applied to a broader range of activities.