Lok Sabha Passes Anti-Maritime Piracy Bill

New Delhi: The Anti-Maritime Piracy Bill, 2019, was approved by the Lok Sabha today. The Bill will enable the Indian authorities to combat piracy on the high seas. It covers the ocean outside of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which is located more than 200 nautical miles from the coast of India.

The Bill defines piracy as any unlawful act of violence, detention, or destruction committed by the crew or passengers of a private ship or aircraft against a ship, aircraft, person, or piece of property for personal benefit.

Inciting and purposefully facilitating such acts of violence are also considered acts of piracy, as is willingly taking part in the operation of a pirate ship or aircraft.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar claimed that in light of the current circumstances, the nation needs this legislation. The Minister went on to say that this Bill’s aim is to advance global collaboration.