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In News
- Recently, the Minister of External Affairs introduced Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022.
Why is it needed ?
- In recent times, regulations relating to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems by international organisations have expanded.
- Further, the United Nations Security Council’s (UNSC) targeted financial sanctions and the recommendations of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) have mandated against financing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
- The need is felt to amend the said Act to provide against the financing of proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems so as to fulfil our international obligations.
Major Highlights of the Bill
- Amends 2005 Act:
- The existing Act (Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005) does not cover the financial aspect of WMD delivery systems and inclusion of new provisions was essential to meet India’s international obligations.
- The 2005 act only banned manufacture of weapons of mass destruction.
- The Bill amends the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005.
- The 2005 Act prohibits unlawful activities (such as manufacturing, transport, or transfer) related to weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery.
- The existing Act (Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005) does not cover the financial aspect of WMD delivery systems and inclusion of new provisions was essential to meet India’s international obligations.
- Insertion of a new Section 12A:
- The Bill seeks to insert a new Section 12A in the existing law which bars persons from financing any prohibited activity related to weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
- To prevent persons from financing such activities, the central government may freeze, seize or attach their funds, financial assets, or economic resources (whether owned, held, or controlled directly or indirectly).
- It may also prohibit persons from making finances or related services available for the benefit of other persons in relation to any activity which is prohibited.
- The Bill seeks to insert a new Section 12A in the existing law which bars persons from financing any prohibited activity related to weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.
What are Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)?
Multilateral treaties Associated with it
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Source:IE
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