National Investigation Agency

National Investigation Agency (NIA) Latest News

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has recently arrested two individuals, including one alleged militant, in connection with violence in Manipur.

About the National Investigation Agency (NIA)

• The NIA was established under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
• It is the primary counter-terrorism agency of India with powers to investigate and prosecute offences affecting India's sovereignty, security, and integrity.

Key Features of the NIA

• Jurisdiction: It applies across India and to Indian citizens abroad. It also extends to offences committed on Indian ships and aircraft, and to crimes outside India that affect Indian citizens or interests.
• Powers and Mandate:
  • Can investigate Scheduled Offences listed in the Act (e.g., Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, Arms Act, Explosives Act).
  • Can initiate investigations on orders from the Central Government when a Scheduled Offence is suspected.
  • Can prosecute cases in Special NIA Courts.
  • Can coordinate with state police forces.
  • Can conduct extraterritorial operations with international legal cooperation.
• Headquarters: Located in New Delhi, with zonal offices in Guwahati and Jammu.
• Leadership: Headed by a Director-General (DG), typically a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) FAQs

Q1: What is the National Investigation Agency (NIA)?
Ans: The NIA is India's central counter-terrorism law enforcement agency, established under the NIA Act, 2008, to investigate and prosecute offences affecting the sovereignty, security, and integrity of India.

Q2: Under which ministry does the NIA function?
Ans: The NIA operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

Q3: Can NIA operate outside India?
Ans: Yes, under a 2019 amendment, the NIA has been empowered to investigate terror-related offences committed outside Indian territory if they affect Indian interests.

Source: TH