Centre, UP frame laws against mafia: HC

Lucknow, July 13 (UNI) Allahabad High Court today directed the Central and Uttar Pradesh governments to frame laws to put effective check on the mafia.

A Lucknow HC bench comprising Justice Devi Prasad Singh said an Organised Crime Control Authority be constituted as per the J V Patnaik Report -- to be headed by a principal secretary level officer.

The bench ruled that the Authority should also comprise a post of Additional Director General (Mafia), so that it works effectively.

The court further said police security should not be provided to persons having private security guards. Similarly, arms licenses of persons having police security be cancelled.

Giving several directions to the UP government in this regard, the court commented the Indian constitution provided for a fearless society and right to lead a dignified life to the people.

This order was passed on a writ petition filed by Chandrika Prasad Nishad and Bholanath Nishad.

UNI XC-VS MSJ BST2146