The 'Janasuraksha Bill' has been approved in the state legislature, providing a special legal framework for action against Naxalites in the state. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis presented this bill, and it was approved by a majority.
Through this law, if an individual or organization poses a threat to public order or national security, immediate action can be taken without filing any preliminary complaint. Since this bill falls under non-cognizable offenses, the police will have more autonomy in taking action.
Blow to Naxal and Maoist Movements
Until now, there was no such independent law in the state. Therefore, the police had to rely on central laws. However, now with the Public Safety Act, action will be possible in Maharashtra similar to Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. This law will apply not only to Naxalite or Maoist organizations but to any group that poses a threat to internal security. The government now has a clear legal weapon available to prevent such groups.
Chief Minister Fadnavis clarifies stance
While speaking in the assembly, Chief Minister Fadnavis said, “This law is not against leftist ideology. The CPI (Maoist) group was banned in 2009, and the initiative behind that decision was taken by the leftist chief ministers of West Bengal.” He also clarified that this law will not be used against teachers, students, or ordinary protesters. “This law is not against any ideological individuals, but against organizations that pose a threat to national security,” he explained.