Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill 2024: Security or threat to liberty?

In recent times, the term "Urban Naxal" has gained prominence in Indian political and social discourse.

- DR. AMAN KUMAR SHARMA & SHELU SHARMA

INTRODUCTION TO THE TERM "URBAN NAXAL" This term refers to individuals who may not be directly involved in Naxalite activities but support them from urban areas through spreading their ideology, providing financial assistance, or offering indirect help. To curb the influence of such individuals, the Maharashtra government has introduced a new bill named the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill 2024.

LEGISLATIVE PROCESS AND BACKGROUND Like any other law, the bill must be passed in the state legislature and signed by the Governor before it becomes an Act. Although this bill was first introduced in 2024, it was not implemented at that time due to various concerns and public feedback. Reportedly, the government received around 12,500 suggestions, out of which only three were accepted partially. In 2025, a revised version of the bill was reintroduced and passed in the legislative assembly and now it is in legislative council.

PURPOSE OF THE BILL: COMBATING URBAN NAXALISM The core objective of the bill is to curb left-wing extremism, especially its urban offshoots. It is believed that some intellectuals, journalists, writers, or activists based in cities indirectly support extremist ideology. The bill aims to equip the government with stronger legal tools to take action against such support mechanisms.

KEY DEFINITIONS AND BROAD PROVISIONS The bill outlines certain vague and broad terms, such as "potential threat," "public concern," and "suspicion" as grounds for government action. It allows the government to take proactive actions against groups or individuals suspected of posing threats. State can impose a ban on the group or detain individuals who are found under suspicion.

This proposed legislation gives a huge amount of discretionary power to executives, which can be misused. As anything can be interpreted as a "threat," or "public concern," it may vary from person to person who is analyzing the situation.