ISIS and Global Jihad — Legal Reforms

Entry	Year	Description	Impact
UAPA Amendment Act, 2012	2012	This amendment broadened the definition of 'terrorist act' and 'terrorist organization' to include acts committed outside India, and introduced provisions for freezing funds and other financial assets of designated terrorist organizations and individuals. It also strengthened provisions related to the financing of terrorism.	Enabled India to better address transnational terrorism, including groups like ISIS, by extending the legal framework to cover activities beyond Indian borders and enhancing financial counter-terrorism measures. This was crucial as ISIS's operations were largely external but had internal implications.
UAPA Amendment Act, 2019	2019	This significant amendment empowered the Central Government to designate individuals as 'terrorists' without requiring them to be part of a designated terrorist organization. It also increased the powers of the Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to approve seizure or attachment of property related to terrorism and allowed NIA officers of the rank of Inspector or above to investigate cases.	The 2019 amendment was particularly impactful in the context of groups like ISIS, which often inspire 'lone wolf' attacks or operate through individuals not formally affiliated with a listed organization. Designating individuals as terrorists allows for proactive action against radicalized individuals and facilitators, enhancing India's ability to counter evolving terror threats and align with international standards set by UNSCR 2178.