Vigilance Against Antiquities Smuggling

Summary Notes on the Enforcement of the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972

1. Legislative Framework:

• The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 regulates the export trade in antiquities and art treasures.
• Enforced in India since April 1976.

2. Objectives of the Act:

• To prevent smuggling and fraudulent dealings in antiquities.
• To ensure the compulsory acquisition of antiques and art pieces for preservation in public places.

3. Implementation Mechanism:

• The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for enforcing the Act.
• Central Antique Records Unit, established in 1974, maintains records relating to cultural property.

4. Registration Process:

• Individuals possessing antiquities over 75 years old must register with the State Archaeological Department:
  • Required to fill out an application form, providing details and four photographs of each object.
  • A certificate will be issued upon scrutiny, and owners must maintain a register of their antiques.
• Surprise checks by officials are permitted to verify compliance.

5. Licensing for Business:

• Businesses dealing in antiquities must obtain a license, with a fee, from the relevant authority.
• In Tamil Nadu, the Superintending Archaeologist (ASI) is the licensing authority, with seven registering officers assigned across various districts.

6. Transfer of Antiquities:

• Any transfer of antiques requires prior permission from the registering officer.
• No exemptions for religious institutions, temples, or Maths.

7. Current Status:

• A dossier of 538 new criminals was compiled by the CBI for cases related to cultural property in 1975.
• Ongoing challenges with compliance; reports indicate minimal registrations but growing interest in the registration process among individuals.

8. Notable Actions:

• The CBI successfully dismantled a gang involved in idol smuggling, reaffirming the need for stringent enforcement against antiquities-related crimes.

9. Registration Deadline:

• Individuals must complete the registration for their antiques before the first week of July, three months from the implementation date of the Act.

This summary highlights critical facts, legislative details, and current enforcement efforts concerning the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, relevant for understanding policies related to cultural heritage conservation in India.