Uttarakhand's new legislation permits recovery of damages from rioters
- In Reports
- 09:00 PM, Sep 20, 2024
- Myind Staff
Uttarakhand Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Gurmit Singh has approved a new law that allows for the full recovery of damages to public property caused during riots or protests. The legislation also includes provisions for imposing fines of up to ₹8 lakh on those involved in rioting.
The Uttarakhand Public and Private Property Damage Recovery Bill was passed by the state assembly last month and received the governor's approval on September 19th.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the governor's assent, stating that the law's strict provisions would act as a strong deterrent for potential offenders who damage public property during strikes, protests, or riots.
"The recovery of every paisa for damaged public property will now be made from the person responsible," Dhami stated. He emphasised that the law aims to prevent individuals from damaging public property during riots.
In addition to the full recovery of damages to private and government property from rioters, a fine of up to ₹8 lakh will also be imposed. Rioters will also be required to cover the expenses incurred by government staff for riot control measures, officials previously stated.
Officials later described the law as the country's "toughest" anti-riot legislation. It was initially introduced as an ordinance in March, following significant damage to public property during riots in the Banbhoolpura area of Haldwani the previous month.
The rioters set a police station on fire and burned several vehicles parked outside. The riots erupted over the demolition of a madrasa and a place of worship that was allegedly built on encroached land, resulting in six fatalities and injuries to numerous police personnel and journalists.
Image source: The Indian Express
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