In a landmark ruling, the Delhi High Court has underscored the expansive scope of the term "terrorist act" under Section 15 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The bench of Justice Prathiba M. Singh and Justice Amit Sharma noted that the statute's language—phrases like “with intent to strike terror” and “by any other means of whatever nature to cause or likely to cause”—emphasizes its preventive purpose.

The court clarified that such provisions not only address immediate terrorist acts but also extend to preparatory or contemplative actions that could take years to materialize.

The court upheld the conviction of Mohammad Abdul Rehman, an alleged member of Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), confirming the trial court’s verdict that found him guilty under Sections 18 and 18B of the UAPA for conspiracy and recruitment linked to terrorist activities.

The court emphasized that Rehman’s logistical and ideological support for AQIS, including facilitating recruitment for training in Pakistan, delivering inflammatory speeches, and possessing objectionable material, constituted clear acts of conspiracy against national security.

Rehman’s case, which began with his arrest in 2015 following evidence linking him to wanted militants in Pakistan and his covert activities to radicalize youth, underscores the court’s stance on tackling secretive and preparatory acts of terrorism.

Rehman, already in custody for over seven years, had been sentenced to concurrent terms of seven years and five months, with additional fines.