UP govt issues ordinance to deal with cow slaughter

Crimes like cow slaughter, human trafficking, money laundering and manufacturing of illegal arms will now come under the Goonda Act under an ordinance promulgated by Uttar Pradesh government.
The UP Control of Goonda (Amendment) Ordinance, 2015 was approved by Governor Ram Naik, a Raj Bhawan spokesman said today.
It seeks to amend the Uttar Pradesh Control of Goonda Act, 1970, by including new sections to bring more crimes in its purview.
Henceforth, people found guilty of these offences will be booked under the Act.
Earlier, these crimes were treated as cognisable offence.
With the UP Legislature scheduled to meet on February 18, a legislation will have to be introduced to replace the measure.

The Uttar Pradesh Control of Goonda Act defines a goonda as a person, who either by himself or as a member or leader of a gang, habitually commits or attempts to commit, or abets the commission of an offence punishable under Section 153 (wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot) of IPC or has been convicted for an offence punishable under the Suppression of Immoral Traffic in Women and Girls Act, 1956.

Anyone convicted not less than thrice for an offence punishable under the UP Excise Act, 1910, or the Public Gambling Act, 1867 or the Arms Act, 1959, or is considered dangerous to the community is also described as a goonda.

Besides, those habitually passing indecent remarks or teasing women or girls, or is a tout or house-grabber, fall in that category.
Among other provision, the Act allows such a person to be externed by the District Magistrate from the jurisdiction for a period of six months under.