It prevented the courts from hearing any criminal charges or civil claims against the government, its leaders or its employees for actions taken between 21 March 1960 and 5 July 1961.

[1][2] The act was precipitated by 224 civil claims for damages, amounting to approximately £400,000 (R800,000), served against the Minister of Justice in September 1960 by victims of Sharpeville and their relatives.

In response to public pressure, the government set up a committee to examine the claims and to recommend ex gratia payments, but few were actually paid out.

It is also inconsistent with the modern Constitution of South Africa, which guarantees the right of access to the courts.

The South African Law Reform Commission has recommended that it should be repealed.