The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972
The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972 is an Indian law enacted to regulate the export, trade, and preservation of antiquities and art treasures in India. Its primary goal is to safeguard the nation's cultural heritage from illegal trafficking and loss.
🔹 Key Objectives of the Act
Prevent illegal export of antiquities and art treasures.
Regulate domestic trade in antiquities.
Register and preserve cultural property of historical, artistic, or archaeological importance.
Protect national heritage from smuggling and destruction.
🔹 Definitions (Important Terms)
Antiquity: Any object or item that is at least 100 years old (sculpture, painting, coin, manuscript, etc.).
Art Treasure: An object or work of art which, though not necessarily over 100 years old, has artistic or aesthetic value as declared by the government.
🔹 Key Provisions
Export Prohibited Without License:
No person can export any antiquity or art treasure except with the permission/license from the Government of India.
Mandatory Registration:
Owners must register antiquities with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) or other designated authorities.
Registration certificate is provided after verification.
Sale Restrictions:
Only licensed dealers can sell antiquities.
Dealers must maintain detailed records of transactions.
Power of Search and Seizure:
Authorities are empowered to search premises and seize items suspected to be antiquities being traded/exported illegally.
Penalties:
Violating the provisions (e.g., illegal export, unregistered possession) can lead to imprisonment and fines.
🔹 Administration
The Act is administered by the Ministry of Culture, primarily through the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
🔹 Importance of the Act
Protects India’s cultural legacy from theft and illegal international art trade.
Assists in the repatriation of stolen antiquities from abroad.
Helps in maintaining an official record of India’s cultural artifacts.
🔹 Recent Relevance
In recent years, the Indian government has made significant efforts to recover stolen antiquities and strengthen heritage protection laws. The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act plays a crucial legal role in these efforts. Do write to us if you need any further assistance.
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