Mumbai
The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, aimed at curbing unlawful activities by Left-Wing Extremist organisations. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that the legislation will not be misused against legitimate protests or ideological groups functioning within the constitutional framework.
The Bill was passed by a majority vote after intense debate during the Monsoon Session. Initially introduced in December 2024, it underwent clause-by-clause review by a joint select committee. CM Fadnavis stated that the law targets violent groups and not mainstream Left parties like CPI or CPI(M). He emphasized that the term “Left-Wing Extremist Organisations” is a legal classification and should not be misinterpreted.
Fadnavis added that Maharashtra, once affected by Maoist violence across four districts, now sees extremism confined to just two taluks. He cited the need for stronger legal tools to deal with organisations that threaten national integrity and operate under the guise of civil society or human rights bodies. The Communist Party of India opposed the Bill, raising concerns about its potential to suppress democratic dissent. Opposition leaders also expressed apprehension over vague definitions and demanded more clarity.
Despite the opposition, the Bill grants the State power to declare organisations unlawful, with offences under it categorized as cognizable and non-bailable. An advisory board and court oversight mechanisms are included to prevent misuse. Fadnavis asserted that Maharashtra’s version of the law is more progressive than similar laws enacted in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Jharkhand, and Odisha.