Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas – linkages of organized crime with terrorism.
5. “All terrorists are criminals but not all criminals are terrorists”, in the light of the statement above explain in what way anti-terror laws in the country have led to a period of over-Criminalisation. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why the question:
The recent Delhi High Court order granting bail to the student activists charged with the UAPA has brought into focus the issue of misuse of anti-terror laws by the policy. The article deals with this issue.
Key Demand of the question:
Explain the statement in detail and analyse in what way anti-terror laws in the country have led to a period of over-Criminalisation.
Directive:
Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the particular context. You must be defining key terms where ever appropriate, and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start with the context of the question.
Body:
Firstly explain the statement – “All terrorists are criminals but not all criminals are terrorists”.
Discuss the relevant judgments with respect to it.
Highlight the misuse of anti-terror laws; give examples.
Explain in what way the criminal justice system needs to take note of the Delhi High Court’s recent judgment on ‘defining terrorism’.
Preset examples of misuse of it.
Conclusion:
Conclude by suggesting what needs to be done to overcome the issues.