The Maharashtra government on Tuesday introduced the amended Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024 in the Legislative Assembly, following detailed scrutiny by a Joint Committee led by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

Originally introduced to curb urban Naxalism and safeguard public order, the bill has undergone significant revisions aimed at addressing widespread public concerns. Speaking in the Assembly, Bawankule emphasized that the bill’s scope has now been narrowed to specifically target unlawful activities related to left-wing extremism or actions ideologically aligned with it. This ensures that political and social organizations are not wrongfully targeted under the law.

The Joint Committee, which convened five times, reviewed more than 12,500 suggestions submitted by citizens, activists and organisations across the state. Based on this feedback, the committee incorporated several safeguards into the bill. One of the key provisions mandates that any proposal to declare an organization as unlawful must be approved by an Advisory Board. This board will be chaired by a sitting or retired High Court judge and will also include a District Judge and an officer of the rank of Director General of Police.