BHUBANESWAR: If the state government has its way, history-sheeters and dreaded gangsters would be dealt with an iron hand under a special law. The government has proposed to enact Odisha Goonda and Anti-social Activities (Prevention) Act to check organised crime syndicates.
A draft bill has been sent to the law department for vetting, sources in the home department said. The development coincided with the opposition BJP and Congress persistently targeting the government over a worsening law and order situation in the state.
The draft bill said an anti-social person would be branded as a Goonda if his violent act disturbs public order and jeopardises safety of the public. "The proposed legislation will check organised crimes like extortion, land grabbing, contract killings, child pornography and cyber stalking among others. Builders and land mafia grabbing lands, abductions for extortions, crimes against women and elderly persons can be addressed under the proposed special law," a senior police officer said.
The draft bill proposes a minimum imprisonment of seven years for Goondas convicted under the special law. District magistrates may get power to attach properties of the accused. Officers, who are found in nexus with the gangsters, will also face stringent action under the proposed law.
"The law proposes a minimum three year and maximum ten year jail term for officials who help criminals by their action or inaction, or intentionally avoid carrying out directions of any court or superior officer. Anyone found to be in possession of assets for anti-social elements may face a minimum jail term of three years," the draft bill said.
The trial under the proposed law will be held in camera and tried by special courts. The proposed law also ensures secrecy and protection of the identity and address of witnesses.
