Lok Sabha passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019

The Lok Sabha today passed the National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019. The bill seeks to broaden the NIA’s powers and can be seen as part of NDA's policy of zero tolerance against terrorism. The NIA was set up in 2009 in the wake of the Mumbai terror attack which had claimed 166 lives.

The bill provides for a national-level agency to investigate and prosecute offences listed in a schedule (scheduled offences). Further, it allows for creation of Special Courts for the trial of scheduled offences.

Speaking in the lower house, Home Minister Amit Shah said that the bill was in national interest as it gives more power to the investigative body.


Minister of State for Home G. Kishan Reddy said "We want to fight terrorism with zero tolerance and have brought this bill in national interest. I pray to all of you for its passage."

Mr. Reddy also said the NIA has been doing a good work and secured conviction in over 90% of cases. It has so far registered 272 cases out of which judgment has been delivered in 52.