Current Affairs - Bills and Acts

The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) was enacted in the year 1967 to enhance the prevention of certain unlawful activities, including those related to terrorism and acts challenging India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This legislation provides legal measures for investigating and prosecuting individuals and associations involved in unlawful activities across the country. The Act passed after the promulgation of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Ordinance in 1966, aims to safeguard national security and maintain public order by empowering agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to handle cases under its provisions.

The Special Marriage Act, of 1954, enacted by the Parliament of India, provides a special form of marriage for all Indian nationals, irrespective of their religion or faith. This Act allows inter-religious marriages and marriages not governed by personal laws, aiming to provide a legal framework for civil marriages in India.

The Wildlife Protection Act (1972) is a crucial legislation enacted in India to safeguard the country's diverse wildlife. This act aims to provide legal protection to various species of flora and fauna, ensuring their conservation and preventing their exploitation. It establishes protected areas like national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and conservation reserves to conserve habitats and species. The act prohibits hunting, poaching, or trade of endangered species and their products. It also regulates activities affecting wildlife habitats, such as deforestation and industrialization. Additionally, the act empowers authorities to enforce strict penalties for violations, contributing significantly to wildlife conservation efforts in India.

The Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FIC Act, 2001), under which the State Bank of India's South Africa branch was fined for non-compliance, was enacted in 2003. This legislation aimed to combat money laundering and terrorist financing by establishing a regulatory framework for financial institutions to report suspicious transactions and maintain customer due diligence. The Act plays a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of South Africa's financial system and aligning with international standards on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

The Explosive Act was enacted in 1884 by the British colonial government in India to regulate the manufacture, storage, possession, use, sale, import, and export of explosives, aiming to establish safety standards and prevent accidents.