New anti-hijacking law with tougher punishment comes into force

Under the new law, perpetrators can be tried for death penalty for causing death of 'any person'

A tough new anti-hijacking law that prescribes capital punishment for perpetrators in the event of the death of "any person" has come into force following a government notification.

The 2016 Anti-Hijacking Act replaces a 1982-vintage law, under which hijackers could be tried for the death penalty only in the event of the death of hostages, such as flight crew, passengers, and security personnel.

Under the new law, the perpetrators can be tried for the death penalty for causing the death of "security personnel on board" or "ground support staff" as well.

Why is a tougher law required? The hijacking of