In a landmark legislative move aimed at dismantling the growing nexus of organized crime, the Haryana Vidhan Sabha today passed the Haryana Control of Organized Crime (HCOC) Bill.
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The “Game Changer” Law: While tabling the bill, the Home Minister emphasized that existing laws were insufficient to tackle the sophisticated networks of modern-day gangsters. “This is a game-changer. For too long, these syndicates have operated with a sense of impunity. The HCOC Act will now ensure that not just the shooters, but the masterminds and their financial backers, are held accountable,” the Minister stated.
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Key Provisions of the HCOC Bill:
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Stringent Bail Norms: The bill makes it significantly harder for those accused of organized crime to obtain bail, ensuring they remain behind bars during the trial.
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Wiretapping & Surveillance: Law enforcement agencies will now have legal backing to use intercepted telephonic and digital communications as admissible evidence in court against organized crime syndicates.
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Confiscation of Property: The Act empowers the state to seize and attach properties and assets acquired through the proceeds of organized crime.
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Protection of Witnesses: Special provisions have been included to ensure the anonymity and safety of witnesses, addressing the issue of witnesses turning hostile due to fear of gangs.
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Strict Punishment: The bill prescribes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty in cases where the crime results in the death of a person.
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The Debate: The bill was passed amidst intense debate. While the treasury benches hailed it as a “suraksha kavach” (shield of protection) for the citizens, some members of the opposition raised concerns regarding the potential for “misuse” of the stringent provisions. However, the government assured the House that the law includes built-in checks and balances to prevent any executive overreach.
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Focus on Gangsters: The immediate target of this bill is the rising wave of extortion calls and inter-state gang rivalries that have troubled the industrial and urban belts of Gurugram, Rohtak, and Sonipat.
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Next Steps: The bill will now be sent for the Governor’s assent, following which it will be formally notified as an Act.
