274 fugitive criminals brought back to India from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026

Why in news

The article highlights the Modi government's efforts in bringing back fugitive criminals, stating that 274 such individuals have been extradited from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026, a significant increase attributed to a new strategy involving global operations, robust coordination, and smart diplomacy.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS4 · Governance, Internal Security, Polity · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. 274 fugitive criminals were brought back to India from 36 countries between 2019 and 2026.
2. The Modi government has made the extradition of fugitives a 'national priority'.
3. India has developed an integrated, intelligence-led and technology-driven model to combat fugitive criminals.
4. The government's strategy is built on three pillars: Global operations, Robust coordination, and Smart diplomacy.
5. There has been a significant increase in the issuance of INTERPOL Red Corner Notices, with 401 notices issued against fugitive criminals in the last three years.
6. BHARATPOL was launched, connecting over 1,400 agencies with INTERPOL, reducing information sharing time to 3-10 days.
7. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) Amendment Act and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment (UAPA) Act were enacted in 2019.
8. Three new criminal laws introduced special provisions relating to fugitives.

Prelims pointers

• Number of fugitive criminals brought back: 274
• Number of countries involved: 36
• Time period: 2019-2026
• Government's strategy pillars: Global operations, Robust coordination, Smart diplomacy
• INTERPOL Red Corner Notices issued in last 3 years: 401
• BHARATPOL connects over 1,400 agencies with INTERPOL.
• Key legislative acts: NIA Amendment Act (2019), UAPA Act (2019).

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of international cooperation and legislative reforms in combating the issue of fugitive economic offenders and their impact on national security and economic stability. Analyze the strategies employed by the Indian government in this regard.

Static linkage

The extradition of fugitive criminals is linked to India's legal framework for criminal justice, international cooperation in law enforcement, and national security. The mention of the NIA Amendment Act and UAPA Act points to legislative measures aimed at strengthening the country's ability to deal with terrorism and organized crime, including those involving individuals absconding abroad.

Significance

The successful extradition of fugitive criminals is crucial for upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice for victims, and maintaining economic stability by recovering illicitly acquired assets. It also reinforces national security by preventing criminals from evading prosecution and continuing their activities. The government's focus on this issue signals a proactive approach to international crime and a commitment to holding offenders accountable, regardless of their location.