Minister presents joint select committee report on Special Public Security Bill in the Assembly

A Joint Select Committee comprising members from both Houses of the Legislature was formed to review the bill.

Committee chairman Chandrashekhar Bawankule stated that the committee held five meetings to address misconceptions and incorporate public suggestions.

The Legislature Secretariat received over 12,500 suggestions, based on which amendments were proposed.

Bawankule, who chaired the committee comprising members from all parties, said the bill’s preamble and objectives have been amended to address concerns.

He said the bill is aimed at curbing naxalism and not targeting political parties or activists. The revised draft, based on consensus, will be circulated and is expected to be introduced in the monsoon session. Officials noted that some provisions have been diluted in the updated version.

The bill’s original intent has been revised to focus on preventing illegal activities linked to left-wing ideologies or similar acts. This ensures the bill will not be misused against political or social organizations.

As per the amendments, a decision by an advisory board is now mandatory before declaring any organisation unlawful. The board will include a sitting or retired high court judge, with members comprising a district judge and officials of GP rank. Previously, the responsibility for inquiry was with a police sub-inspector. Based on the committee’s recommendation, this duty has now been assigned to an officer of Deputy Superintendent of Police rank.

The joint committee included prominent MLAs such as Jayant Patil, Nana Patole, Bhaskar Jadhav, Jitendra Awhad and Ambadas Danve. These members provided valuable suggestions to eliminate potential misconceptions and prevent misuse of the bill.

“Over 12,500 public suggestions were considered, enhancing the bill’s clarity. This has made the bill more transparent and aligned with democratic values,” he said.