Description

On 10 July 2025, the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly approved the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, aiming to crack down on Left Wing Extremist (LWE) activities and affiliated organisations. This legislation aligns Maharashtra with other states such as Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, which have enacted similar laws to combat extremism. The bill seeks to enhance public safety while incorporating measures to prevent abuse of power.

Legislative Journey Of Bill

Originally introduced in December 2024, the bill underwent detailed examination by a joint select committee. Following the committee’s recommendations, it was brought before the Assembly for a nearly two-hour debate. Despite resistance from opposition members, particularly the Communist Party of India (CPI), the bill was approved through a voice vote. It now awaits deliberation in the Legislative Council for final clearance.

Key Features Of Bill

The new law criminalises membership in organisations declared unlawful due to their links with left-wing extremism. Penalties range from two to seven years of imprisonment, and offences under the Act are deemed cognisable and non-bailable. Additionally, the government is empowered to seize and forfeit financial assets of proscribed groups. Importantly, individuals cannot be arrested solely based on suspicion; arrests are limited to proven affiliations with banned organisations.

Why Law Was Enacted

Maharashtra is home to 64 extremist organisations, the highest among Indian states. However, until now, none of these groups had been formally banned, making the state vulnerable to extremist operations. The government argues that the new law is necessary to deter extremist violence and tighten internal security across the state.

Comparison With Other States’ Laws

With this legislation, Maharashtra becomes the fifth Indian state to enforce a law specifically targeting extremist organisations. Collectively, the other four states have outlawed 48 front organisations. Maharashtra’s version is regarded as stricter, particularly in its non-bailable provisions and expanded financial forfeiture powers, underscoring the state’s heightened security concerns.

Safeguards And Civil Liberties

While the law aims to improve public security, it includes provisions to prevent arbitrary arrests, ensuring that individuals not associated with banned groups are not penalised. However, concerns remain over the potential for the law to be used against legitimate dissent and peaceful protests. The state government has pledged to enforce the law responsibly, but continued oversight and vigilance will be necessary to protect democratic rights and freedom of expression.

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