UP Legislature passes stringent crime control bill

The Uttar Pradesh Legislature today passed a stringent bill to curb organised crime and deal strictly with those trying to foment terror with the Legislative Council giving its nod to the measure.

The Uttar Pradesh Control of Organised Crime Bill (UPCOCB) was passed yesterday by the state Assembly, where it had to be re-introduced as it could not be passed in the Upper House, where the ruling BJP is in minority, and was referred to the select committee.

After its passage in the Assembly, it was brought afresh in the Council, where it was passed.

The proposed legislation on the lines of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) seeks to curb organised crime and deal strictly with those trying to foment terror or dislodge the government forcibly or through violent means.

The UPCOC Bill, 2017 also seeks to act sternly against those using explosives or firearms or any other violent means or damaging life and property or involved in anti-national or destructive activities.

It will now be sent to Governor Ram Naik for his assent after which the Act will come into force.