The Cultural Conservator In Need Of A Makeover: A Legislative Commentary On The Antiquities And Art Treasures Act 1972 [Video]

While one part of India wonders whether it will get back its once treasuredKohinoor diamond, the other part of India is slowly looted away of its remainingcultural wealth, which came into limelight with the infamous case of SubashKapoor, who was arrested for his smuggling and illegal dealings of antiquities.

However, efforts are being made for the retrieval of what was India’s culturalwealth. This is evident from the recent news of the Indian government retrieving16 stolen artefacts from the USA via the Cultural Property Agreement.

In this context, it becomes essential to review the existing legislations, whichserve to protect cultural heritage and prevent illegal trafficking and smugglingof artifacts. The legislation working for the said purpose in the present is theAntiquities and Art Treasures Act (AATA)[1] of 1972.

The paper, at its base, discusses the backdrop of the AATA, its salient features and important …