June 19, 2023 : The Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab, in association with National InvestigationAgency (NIA) inaugurated Five-Day Refresher Training Programme for Law Officers of the National Investigation Agency on “Counter-Terror Laws: Investigation, Evidencing and Prosecution”, which is scheduled from 19th to 23rd June, 2023. The training programme is aimed at replenishing and updating the knowledge of the Law Officers of the National Investigation Agency in terms of the latest developments in the legal and technical landscape pertaining to Counter Terror Laws, Investigation and Prosecution.

The training programme tries to initiate and further the debate not only on the counter-terror laws but also on the broader understanding of Terrorism and Radicalisation. Over a period of five days, several sessions will be held on issues such as Collection of Evidence, Electronic Evidence and Social Media, Structured Investigation in Counter Terror Cases, Social Media and Online Radicalization, Latest Amendments and Latest Judgments under the UAPA, 1967 and NIA Act,  2008, Provisions for Investigation and Prosecution of Terror Related Offences under Criminal Laws, etc.

 Atulchandra Kulkarni, Additional Director General, NIA was the Chief Guest for the Inaugural Session. While discussing the emergent issues relating to Terrorism, Kulkarni highlighted the need for detailed discussions on UAPA,1967 and NIA Act, 2008, speedy disposal of cases, inclusion of new wings within the NIA in relation to cyber-terrorism and human trafficking, and the exigency of bail reforms.

Prof. (Dr.) AnandPawar, Vice-Chancellor, RGNUL gave the presidential address and deliberated on the prosecution and investigation hurdles faced by NIA, need for coordination between the Centre and State agencies, judicial reforms and the establishment of a common database for smoother investigation process. He further encouraged the participants to discuss the practical issues faced by them with the resource personnel to further enhance the effectiveness of the training programme.