Jansuraksha Act : Maharashtra's Answer to Internal Security Threats
While the state's monsoon session is underway, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today presented the much-awaited Public Safety Bill in the Legislative Assembly. Previously, Revenue Minister and Committee Chairman Chandrashekhar Bawankule presented the committee's report in the legislature yesterday. The reports of both houses' committees were presented in the Legislative Assembly today. Discussions were held in both houses on these reports. But what exactly is this Public Safety Bill, and how will it benefit the general public? Let's find out.
What is the 'Public Safety Special Act'?
This law will be implemented as a non-bailable and preventive measure. If the government feels that any person or organization is posing a threat to public order or state security, immediate action can be taken against them without filing any formal complaint.
Why is such a law necessary in Maharashtra?
For effective control over Naxalites and elements threatening internal security in the state, the demand for such an independent law has been ongoing for many years. Currently, the police have to rely on central government laws like UAPA, POTA for this purpose. However, there are often administrative permissions and procedural difficulties involved, which result in many accused being released, as was highlighted in the Saibaba case.
States like Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh already have such laws in place. Therefore, the need for Maharashtra to have its own law has been emphasized.
Key Provisions of the Bill -
Organizations deemed harmful to state security can be declared illegal.
Such organizations' assets, offices, and bank accounts can be sealed.
If a banned organization operates under a new name, it will still be considered part of the original organization.
An FIR can only be registered with the permission of an officer of DIG rank.
Only SI or higher-ranked officers can conduct investigations.
A charge sheet will be filed only with the consent of an officer of ADG rank.
To prevent misuse of the law, the investigation process requires approval at a high level.
'Public Security Special Act' can prove to be an important step for internal security in Maharashtra. Through this law, the state government will have independent powers to take effective action against increasing Naxalite movements, extremist tendencies, and elements posing a threat to public order in the state. However, necessary protective measures have also been included to prevent misuse of this law. Everyone's attention is on the political and social discussions that will take place on this bill in the coming period.