Gandhinagar: The Government of Gujarat has taken a decision to amend the law of PASA (The Gujarat Prevention of Anti-social Activities Act, 1985) in order to cover those into gambling, cyber crime, illegal money lending (loan sharks) and sexual abuse crimes.

State Chief Minister will propose important amendments in PASA law through ordinance in the next meeting of cabinet.

PASA is effective in the State since 1985. As per existing provisions PASA can be used against one involved in crimes under IPC and Arms Act, those who are found dangerous persons, property grabbers, drug offenders involved in drug trafficking, gambling den operators, criminals involved in immoral activities linked to flesh trade, bootleggers and those involved in bovine slaughter or cow beef transportation and selling.

The government has now decided to add more types of crimes under PASA.

As per this decision, crimes and criminal activities under IT act year 2000 are to be covered under PASA.

So far one involved in gambling would attract PASA only when he/she commits crime for one more time within three-year period of committing first crime. With new decision effective, this three-year limit will go.

Definition of money-lending related crime will be in accordance to provisions under Gujarat Money Lenders related Adhiniyam section – 9.

In order to reduce sexual abuse crimes and ensure women’s security further, crimes under various sections of IPC 1860 and POCSO will attract PASA. DeshGujarat