Regulation and Use of Ammonium Nitrate in Terror Activities
The use of ammonium nitrate in the Red Fort blast and numerous other attacks has highlighted the need for stringent regulation of this compound.
Historical Use in Terror Attacks
- Ammonium nitrate has been a key component in terror attacks from 2000 to 2012, including the Indian Mujahideen (IM) attacks and the Malegaon blast.
- Left Wing Extremists (LWE) have also extensively used ammonium nitrate in IEDs.
Regulatory Measures
- In 2012, the government introduced regulations on the sale of ammonium nitrate following multiple city attacks by home-grown IM.
- Classified as a special category explosive under The Explosive Substance Act, 1908.
- The regulation proposal initiated in 2008 post the Mumbai 26/11 attacks faced objections and legal hurdles but was eventually notified in 2012.
Manufacturing and Licensing
- India had five manufacturers of ammonium nitrate, located in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab, and Maharashtra.
- For legitimate agricultural use, district magistrates can grant possession licenses, requiring monthly accounting of ammonium nitrate.
Challenges and Recommendations
- Recent seizures, such as 360 kg in the Faridabad plot, indicate gaps in regulation enforcement.
- Authorities suggest revisiting and recalibrating current regulations to curb misuse.
Ammonium nitrate, often paired with boosters like PETN or RDX, is favored by terror groups for its availability. The focus now is on tightening controls to prevent its misuse.
