A Critical Study of Evolution of Laws & Conventions on Hijacking: An Indian Perspective

The invention of the aeroplane has to rank among the greatest stories in human history. This is a result of the lengthy travel times before this discovery. Nevertheless, the length of travel time has significantly decreased due to this technology. Its use has grown massively since it is the most convenient means of getting around and because it has dramatically lowered a significant inconvenience, namely travel time. Interestingly, nothing about civil aviation is carefree. Frequent instances of aircraft hijacking have tainted the reputation of this practical mode of transport. Hijacking an aircraft is regarded as a crime against humanity under international law. The world community ultimately condemns it because this crime has traumatised human values, endangered lives, and destroyed property. The motives for this crime could be personal, involve taking hostages, political or administrative, etc. According to international law, the state should assume full responsibility for resolving the problems associated with aeroplane hijacking. Only via worldwide networks, bilateral agreements, and the conviction of those responsible for aeroplane hijacking can an attempt be made to address this hijacking issue. This paper highlights the problem of aircraft hijacking, its history, and international laws & conventions related to it in contemporary times. It also discusses how India has adopted these conventions & anti-hijacking laws passed by the government.