Organized Crime in 21st Century India: Focus on the Uttar Pradesh Goondas Act, 1970
Author(s): Indua Gautam
Abstract: In recent decades, India has seen a marked evolution in organized crime, from traditional mafia syndicates to modern rackets in narcotics, mining, real estate, cybercrime and beyond. Socioeconomic strains like rural distress, caste-driven patronage and political collusion have fuelled these criminal networks, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh. India’s legal response includes national statutes, likewise the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, NDPS Act, and state laws, likewise the Goondas Acts, Gangsters Acts, and MCOCA. This study examines the Uttar Pradesh Control of Goondas Act, 1970, a preventive detention law allowing magistrates to banish “goondas” (habitual offenders) from a district, its application, misuse, and impact. We analyse cases in UP where the Act has been invoked and scrutinise judicial provisions and compare them with similar laws in other states (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Gujarat) and countries, likewise the US RICO Act. The article concludes with recommendations to reform India’s framework on organized crime, urging clearer definitions, judicial oversight and safeguards against abuse, while strengthening targeted anti-mafia measures.
Keywords: Organized Crime, UP Goondas Act, Preventive Detection, Drug Trafficking Syndicates, Gangster Act.
DOI: doi.org/10.65719/RC.3.2.2025.102
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