SIA formed in J&K for speedy probe in terror-related cases

Srinagar: In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the home department of the UT Government has approved the formation of a Special Investigation Agency (SIA) for investigation and prosecution of offences under the UAPA and the Explosive Substances Act. 

This agency has been formed on the lines of National Investigation Agency (NIA), to investigate cases like terrorist violence, terror funding, treason, drug and arms smuggling. The SIA will also play the role of nodal agency in investigating all related cases, including terrorist violence and sedition in the state, coordinating with NIA and other affiliated security agencies and providing them with all



necessary support.

However, the head of the CID wing of J&K Police will be the Ex-Officio Director of the SIA and will be able to act following all the powers available in his jurisdiction and the powers granted by the Government from time to time. Worth to mention, the SIA would be constituted for speedy investigation of terrorist violence and sedition cases in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure swift punishment to the culprits. 

The formation of SIA will help the J&K Police maintain law and order, prevent common crimes and keep itself entirely focused on counter-terrorism operations.