Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Sunday that the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024 will allow the government to take firm steps against “urban Naxalism.” He accused those opposing the bill of supporting Left-wing extremism. “They are in a way trying to take forward the Left-wing extremism ideology,” he said.

Fadnavis made it clear that the law will not stop people from protesting or criticising the government. He said the bill protects democratic rights while focusing on fighting extremism.

Strict Punishments Proposed in New Law

This new law aims to stop activities linked to Left-wing extremist groups. It suggests harsh punishments. Offenders could face up to seven years in jail and fines of up to Rs5 lakh. The law also treats such offences as cognisable and non-bailable.

The state assembly passed the bill on Thursday, and the legislative council cleared it the next day. It will officially become law after the governor’s approval.

Fadnavis Explains Urban Naxalism Spread

Responding to a question about BJP MLA Sumit Wankhede’s claims that urban Naxalism had entered Gandhian organisations in Wardha, Fadnavis explained how Left-wing extremists changed their strategy. He said, “They made a strategic change, when it came to their notice that their cadres in jungles were diminishing. They decided to enter educational institutions, universities or various other organisations to finish off the constitutional rule there and create anarchy through these urban cadres.”

Fadnavis warned that unlike armed Maoists, these urban cadres are harder to detect. “We can see those fighting against us with guns, but these urban (Naxal) cadres are invisible and slowly corrupting our systems. Hence, this new law will help us in taking big action against urban Naxalism,” he said.

Bill Passed After Extensive Discussions

Fadnavis said he was happy that both houses passed the bill. He said the government followed a transparent, democratic process while drafting the law. “The bill was placed before all party leaders and discussed clause by clause,” he said. He added that suggestions from the joint select committee were accepted, and “there was not a single dissent note to the committee report.”

The Chief Minister said the government received 12,000 suggestions, which were reviewed. After incorporating necessary changes, the bill was passed by both houses.

He criticised people who opposed the bill without reading it. “Some people are speaking against the bill without even going through it. They will never speak against the bill if they read it,” he said.

Legal System Needs Speedy Reforms, Says Fadnavis

When asked about Chief Justice of India Bhushan Gavai’s recent comments on India’s slow legal system, Fadnavis agreed. He said, “There is a need to make our criminal justice system faster.” He called the CJI’s remarks “absolutely correct” and said improvements are necessary to ensure justice moves more quickly.