Maharashtra Assembly Approves Special Public Security Bill to Combat Extremism

Maharashtra Assembly Passes Controversial Security Legislation

On Thursday, the Maharashtra Assembly approved the Special Public Security Bill, which is designed to curb unlawful activities associated with left-wing extremist groups. The bill was passed through a voice vote after a debate where opposition members raised concerns regarding its vague language, particularly regarding the term 'urban Naxal.'

The phrase 'urban Naxals' was popularized by leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party following the arrests of various activists and scholars linked to the Elgar Parishad case in 2018. Since then, it has been frequently used to label dissenters against the Narendra Modi administration.

This legislation has yet to be presented in the Legislative Council.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who introduced the bill, emphasized its necessity in countering the alleged infiltration of urban areas by left-wing extremist organizations that threaten constitutional institutions.

Fadnavis noted a significant decline in Maoist activities in rural regions but pointed out a concerning rise in efforts to influence urban youth ideologically.

He assured the Assembly that the law would not target legitimate political opposition or recognized leftist parties, stating, 'There will be no abuse of power.'

Fadnavis reiterated that the legislation is aimed at safeguarding the country's internal security, clarifying that it does not target parties like CPI or CPI(M), which are respected despite ideological differences. He stated, 'It is against those organizations whose motive is to demolish the established institutions of our country.'

The bill defines unlawful activities broadly, encompassing any actions, including speech or writing, that threaten public order or disrupt the administration of law. Penalties under the proposed law could range from two to seven years of imprisonment.

Opposition members expressed their discontent with the definitions of terms like 'Left-wing extremism' and 'urban Naxal,' arguing that they are overly ambiguous and open to misinterpretation. Congress MLA Nana Patole highlighted that out of 12,000 suggestions and objections, only three were accepted.

Fadnavis clarified that the law would only be enforced when an organization's main goal is to oppose the Constitution or its authorities.

The bill also proposes the establishment of an advisory board led by the chief justice or a retired chief justice of the High Court. Additionally, cases under this Act will be managed by officers of at least the rank of superintendent of police, rather than a police sub-inspector.