Archive · 14 Jun 2025
Maharashtra May Amend Security Bill Amidst Concerns
The Maharashtra government is looking at possibly changing a new law about public safety.
The law gives the government strong powers to deal with people suspected of Left-wing extremism.
Many people, including other lawmakers, are worried the government could misuse this law.
They are concerned that it's not needed since existing laws already cover the same issues.
A committee is reviewing the bill after receiving many complaints and concerns.
The committee will meet again to discuss the changes and possibly share a new version of the bill.
Maharashtra government is considering changes to the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024.
Opposition legislators and civil society groups have raised concerns about the bill's potential misuse and overlap with existing laws.
The bill grants the state broad powers to act against alleged Left-wing extremism.
A 26-member joint select committee is reviewing the bill, having received over 12,300 objections.
The next meeting of the committee is scheduled for June 25, where the revised draft is expected to be presented.
- Who
- Maharashtra government, opposition legislators, civil society groups.
- What
- Maharashtra government considering amendments to the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024.
- When
- The bill was introduced in May 2024; next meeting scheduled on June 25.
- Where
- Maharashtra
- Why
- Due to concerns about potential misuse and overlap with existing laws.
Civil Society/Opposition Concerns
Government Position
Necessity of the Bill
Civil Society/Opposition Concerns
The bill is unnecessary, as existing laws like UAPA already address terrorism.
Government Position
The government believes the bill is needed to effectively address certain threats.
Potential for Misuse
Civil Society/Opposition Concerns
The bill could be misused to target dissenters and critics.
Government Position
The government intends to use the bill to combat extremism and maintain public safety.
Definition of Extremist Affiliation
Civil Society/Opposition Concerns
Lack of clear definition of 'Maoist' could lead to misidentification and unfair targeting.
Government Position
The government may clarify the definition or scope to avoid ambiguity.
- Bill Name
- Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024
- Committee Review
- 26-member joint select committee
- Objections Received
- Over 12,300
- Focus
- Unlawful activities of Leftist extremists
- Meeting Date
- June 25