Naxal-hit AP to bring in tough law

The state cabinet, which met here today had unanimously felt the need to curb the activities of outlawed Peoples8217; War Group PWG in the state through a new legislation, the state Revenue Minister Devender Goud told reporters here today.

However, Goud did not divulge the details of the proposed Andhra Pradesh Banned Organisations prevention and restriction Bill, 1998 saying that it would be disclosed after approval by the Cabinet, which is meeting again here tomorrow.

It contains several provisions relating to restriction on performances, meetings and movements, banning of publication of books and other material and forfeiture of propertyof persons declared offenders under the bill.

Besides TADA, the proposed legislation is based on provisions of several other Acts including the AP Public Securities Measures Act, 1951, AP Habitual Offenders Act, Prevention of Seditious Meetings Act of 1911 and the AP Suppression of Disturbances Act.

The draft describes 8220;unlawful activity8221; as any activity by a person or group of persons by committing violence or intimidation or coercion or with the object of creating terror or insecurity which disrupts supply of essential commodities, transport and communication systems, electoral process and industrial production.