This Act was passed by the Parliament in 2008. The UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) replaced POTA. It contains the following main provisions. Terrorist Act is defined in section 15 of the Act as “Any act which threatens the unity, integrity, sovereignty of India or with intent to strike terror in the people or any section of people in India or in any foreign country”.

1. Those persons who have the intention of aiding, abetting or committing a terrorist act shall be punishable with imprisonment for 10 years and fine. 

2. Punishment for raising funds for terrorist acts is 5 years which may extend to life imprisonment and liable for fine. 

3. It prescribes punishment for recruitment of persons for terrorist acts and their training. The punishment is 5 years which may extend to imprisonment for life and liable for fine. 

4. Every offence punishable under this Act shall be deemed to be a cognizable offence. If the investigation cannot be completed within 90 days, the court may extend the detention period up to 180 days.

5. If there are sufficient grounds for detention of an accused person under the Act, no bail is granted. Further, no bail shall be granted to a foreigner who has entered the country illegally except in very exceptional circumstances and for reasons to be recorded in writing.

6. The Central Government has the power to freeze, seize or attach funds or other financial assets or economic resources of the terrorist groups.