The Special Public Security Bill, 2024, proposed by the Maharashtra government, has ignited a storm of public opposition, drawing a record-breaking 12,750 suggestions and objections, according to a report by Hindustan Times. This marks the highest-ever public response to any draft legislation in the history of the Maharashtra legislature, significantly surpassing the 700-odd responses submitted in 2020 against the Shakti Criminal Laws (Maharashtra Amendment) Bill.
The objections were invited by a 25-member Joint Select Committee (JSC) comprising legislators from both houses. The committee is scheduled to deliberate on the objections at a crucial meeting on May 21, 2025 where it is also expected to hear from representatives of over 100 civil society organisations. These groups have strongly criticised the bill, calling it “anti-democratic” and unconstitutional.
Originally tabled in July 2024, shortly after the Lok Sabha elections, the bill was referred to the JSC for further scrutiny. Since then, the committee has convened two meetings, and officials now report that over 90% of the responses oppose the bill. Many submissions offer detailed, section-wise critiques, arguing that the legislation could have chilling effects on dissent and civil liberties.
The bill grants the state sweeping powers to act against individuals allegedly associated with or supporting “urban Naxalism”. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has publicly defended the bill, asserting that Naxalite activity is no longer confined to rural areas and has found its way into cities through frontal organisations. As reported by Hindustan Times, he maintains that these urban networks pose a serious internal security threat.
However, rights groups and legal experts warn that such legislation could enable state overreach, criminalise dissent, and be used to target activists, journalists, students, and others critical of the government. “The objections we’ve received have been categorised thematically and analysed section-by-section,” said a senior legislative official, as per the HT report. “More than 90% of submissions are in opposition, with detailed reasoning challenging the bill’s core provisions.”
Despite the opposition, the Mahayuti government appears determined to push ahead. According to Hindustan Times, officials in the home department confirmed that the government aims to get the bill passed in the upcoming monsoon session of the legislature, beginning June 30. One official claimed that many objections are based on “misinformation” about the bill’s intent. “Most of the feedback is repetitive and rooted in misconceptions,” the officer said. “The JSC will work to dispel these misunderstandings during the review.”
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Maharashtra’s government heeds the unprecedented civic response, or proceeds with legislation that critics argue could fundamentally weaken democratic freedoms in the state.
Widespread protests against Maharashtra’s Special Public Security Bill
On April 22, 2025, a state-wide protest against the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill (MSPS), 2024 saw over 78 demonstrations across 36 districts. Citizens, civil society groups, and political parties united in opposition, denouncing the bill as anti-democratic and draconian.
Ulka Mahajan, state convenor of the Bharat Jodo Andolan, emphasized their continued resistance, citing a massive response to protests across the state. “This bill isn’t about public security; it’s a tool for suppression and autocracy,” she told Hindustan Times.
In Sindhudurg, a formal memorandum was submitted to the District Collector, calling for the bill’s withdrawal, citing its unconstitutional overreach and potential to stifle dissent. Similarly, Nanded witnessed a Satyagraha by the Jan Suraksha Vidhayak Virodhi Samiti, with leaders warning of the bill’s harmful impact on democratic rights. In Goregaon (West), protesters staged a dharna, denouncing the bill’s intent, while in Thane, workers and activists rallied outside the District Collector’s office, labelling the bill as anti-worker and anti-democratic.
The protests culminated in a call for a massive march to the Vidhan Bhavan on June 30, the opening day of the monsoon session, signalling ongoing resistance against the bill’s passage.
Details of the protests may be read here.
CJP raised concerns over the contentious Bill
On April 1, 2025, Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) submitted detailed objections to the MSPS Bill, calling attention to its broad, ambiguous provisions that pose serious risks to civil liberties and constitutional rights. The bill, initially framed to enhance public security, is criticised for granting the state excessive powers of surveillance, detain, and suppress dissent. CJP warned that the bill mirrors past laws like the UAPA and NSA, often misused to target marginalised communities and stifle opposition.
Key objections raised by CJP include:
1. Section 2(f) (i)-(vii): Overbroad definitions of “Unlawful Activity”
CJP highlighted that the bill’s vague definition of “unlawful activity” allows the state to label peaceful protests, strikes, and political dissent as security threats, potentially restricting fundamental freedoms.
2. Section 5(1)(2): Politicisation of the advisory board
The bill allows non-judicial figures, including retired judges and non-appointed officials, to be appointed to the Advisory Board. This, risks compromising judicial independence and allowing political influence in key decisions.
3. Section 9: Arbitrary eviction and property seizure
CJP points out that Section 9 grants unchecked authority to evict people and seize property under the guise of public security, with minimal safeguards for vulnerable groups like women and children.
4. Section 10(1): Seizure of moveable property
The bill permits authorities to seize not just properties, but also moveable assets, including money and belongings, without clear legal safeguards. This could be used to financially harm activists and opposition groups.
5. Section 12: Denial of legal redress at district level
Section 12 restricts legal recourse for those arrested under the bill to the High Court or Supreme Court, bypassing the district courts and potentially barring access to justice, especially for economically disadvantaged individuals.
6. Sections 14 and 15: Blanket immunity for police and bureaucrats
These sections provide immunity to police officers and district magistrates from prosecution, even in cases of misuse of the law, promoting impunity and encouraging potential human rights violations.
CJP had urged the immediate withdrawal of the MSPS Bill, calling it a dangerous overreach that threatens fundamental rights and undermines democratic freedoms.
Detailed objections may be read here.
Related:
Understanding the Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill, 2024 | Threat to Civil Liberties?
Press Release: Experts warn, Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill a threat to civil liberties