The World : India Seeks Terrorist Law

Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s government introduced sweeping anti-terrorist legislation in Parliament, including the death sentence by hanging for terrorist acts causing injury or death. The legislation, aimed at curbing Sikh extremists, defines a terrorist act as one intended to “overawe the government, strike terror, alienate any section, and affect harmony among different sections.” The bill gives the government almost unlimited powers to search premises, intercept mail, tap telephones, hold secret trials and imprison for life those who aid terrorists.