The Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022

Introduction

Introduced in: Lok Sabha on April 5, 2022. Passed by Lok Sabha on April 6 2022

Introduced by: Ministry of External Affairs (Minister Mr S. Jaishankar)

Status: Pending

Main objectives of the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Amendment Bill, 2022

          To prohibit unlawful activities (such as manufacturing, transport, or transfer) related to weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery.

What is weapon of mass destruction for the purpose of the Bill

          Weapons of mass destruction are biological, chemical, or nuclear weapons.

Main Provisions of the Bill

          The Bill bars persons from financing any prohibited activity related to weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems. To prevent persons from financing such activities, the central government may freeze, seize or attach their funds, financial assets, or economic resources (whether owned, held, or controlled directly or indirectly).  It may also prohibit persons from making finances or related services available for the benefit of other persons in relation to any activity which is prohibited.

          The Bill amends the Weapons of Mass Destruction and their Delivery Systems (Prohibition of Unlawful Activities) Act, 2005.  The 2005 Act prohibits unlawful activities (such as manufacturing, transport, or transfer) related to weapons of mass destruction, and their means of delivery. The present Bill bars persons from financing any prohibited activity related to weapons of mass destruction and their delivery systems.

Criticism: Raising objections over the intent of the government for bringing the bill, Leader of the opposition Adheer Ranjan Chaudhry asked the government to explain the unequivocal definition of weapons of mass destruction and what is the firewall and emergency backup the country has against such weapons.

Reply from government: Replying to the debate on the bill, the External affairs minister said that

(1) Passing of this bill will strengthen the country’s global position and specific changes in the earlier law was necessary so that the security of the country can be ensured.

(2) Upgrading a law which was 17 years old was necessary and it is also a sign of good governance.

(3) Many other countries in the world have such legislation because current requirements need specific law and legal statutory ways to deal with the issues of security.