Q. Discuss the role, function and structure of National Investigation Agency. How has it assumed importance in present day?
Ans: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is India’s premier counter-terrorism agency established under the NIA Act of 2008 following the Mumbai terror attacks. Its creation marked a significant shift in India’s internal security apparatus, aiming for a centralized, specialized body to tackle terrorism and related offences.
Role and Functions of the NIA
The primary role of the NIA is to investigate and prosecute offences affecting national security. It functions as a central counter-terrorism law enforcement agency and is empowered to deal with crimes having national and transnational implications, including:
- Terrorism and terror financing
- Acts threatening sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India
- Offences under special laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), Atomic Energy Act, and more
- Cyber-terrorism and other technologically sophisticated crimes
Additionally, the NIA can take up cases across states without prior approval from the concerned state government, ensuring speed and uniformity in counter-terror operations.
Organizational Structure
The NIA operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs and consists of:
- Director General (DG) – the chief executive of the agency
- IGs, DIGs, SPs and ASPs – responsible for investigation, intelligence, and coordination
- Multiple regional offices and specialized units, such as the Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Cybercrime divisions
Importance in Present-Day Context
The NIA has become pivotal due to:
- Rising incidents of terrorism and radicalization
- Growing need for inter-agency coordination and intelligence sharing
- Its success in busting terror modules and disrupting foreign-funded extremist networks
- Expanding jurisdiction post the 2019 amendment, allowing it to investigate crimes committed by Indians abroad
Thus, the NIA stands as a cornerstone of India’s evolving internal security framework.