Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 26: The Maharashtra government has revised the draft of the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, narrowing its focus specifically to Left Wing Extremist (LWE) organisations and similar groups, in response to widespread criticism from civil society and opposition parties.

The amended objective replaces the earlier phrasing targeting “certain unlawful activities of individuals and organisations” with language that directly targets LWE outfits. This change was formalised during the final meeting of the 25-member Joint Select Committee, chaired by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

Originally introduced during last year’s winter session, the bill drew backlash for its potential misuse—particularly concerns that it could be used to label dissenting voices as “urban naxals.” Following the uproar, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis referred the bill to the select committee for review.

Three key amendments have now been incorporated:

1. Redefined Focus: The bill now explicitly targets activities linked to LWE organisations, dropping ambiguous language that critics feared could be used against individuals or civil society groups.

2. Revised Advisory Board Composition: The panel responsible for designating an organisation as "unlawful" will now include:

o A serving or retired High Court judge as chairperson
o A retired district judge
o A High Court public prosecutor

This replaces the earlier provision that allowed a single High Court-level official to make such designations.

3. Upgraded Investigation Authority: Investigations under the bill must now be led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) or higher, aligning with procedures in place for UAPA and Prevention of Atrocities Act cases. Initially, investigations were to be handled by officers of sub-inspector rank, a clause the committee strongly opposed.

The committee also recommended that the state formulate a comprehensive policy to deter youth from adopting Maoist ideology, with a focus on reintegration into mainstream society.

Speaking earlier in May, Bawankule had noted that similar laws exist in four other states and stressed the need for a robust legal framework in Maharashtra to counter extremist threats. However, he confirmed that terms like "urban naxal" have now been removed from the bill to prevent misuse and political targeting.

The revised bill is expected to be tabled during the monsoon session of the Maharashtra legislature, starting June 30.