Special Public Security Bill will not infringe upon citizens’ rights : CM Fadnavis
Journalists pointed out that the bill is widely perceived as a potential threat to freedom of speech across various sections of society.
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journalists pointed out that the bill is widely perceived as a potential threat to freedom of speech across various sections of society. (Express Photo) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday has assured that the proposed Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill will not infringe upon citizens’ right to freedom of expression.
Addressing key journalist associations under the banner of Patrakar Abhivyakti Manch, the Chief Minister took note of the concerns raised regarding certain provisions of the bill. A total of 14 major journalist organisations across Maharashtra came together to form the forum, Patrakar Abhivyakti Manch.
During the meeting, a detailed discussion was held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai between the forum representatives and the Chief Minister. The journalists pointed out that the bill is widely perceived as a potential threat to freedom of speech across various sections of society.
In response, CM Fadnavis assured that the government would make all efforts to dispel any such notions and clarified that the bill is not aimed at curbing individual freedom or restricting fearless journalism. “The law is intended to curb urban Naxalism and is targeted specifically at banned organizations and those who support such extremist activities,” the CM explained.
He further noted that similar laws already exist in Naxal-affected states like Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Odisha. Maharashtra, lacking such a framework, has reportedly become a hub for Naxal-linked organizations according to him. “To counter such activities effectively, a stringent law is necessary,” the Chief Minister said.
To ensure checks and balances, the implementation of the law will be overseen by a three-member panel of judges. Only with their approval can cases be registered under this legislation, minimising the chances of misuse, the CM added.
CM Fadnavis also welcomed written suggestions from journalist organisations, promising they would be considered before finalising the bill. The meeting was attended by representatives from the Mumbai Marathi Patrakar Sangh, Marathi Patrakar Parishad, Mumbai Press Club, Legislature Reporters’ Association, Accredited Journalists’ Committee, TV Journalists’ Association, Brihanmumbai Union of Journalists, BMC Reporters’ Association, Mumbai Crime Reporters’ Association, Pune Shramik Patrakar Sangh, Mumbai Hindi Journalists’ Association, National Union of Journalists (India), Maharashtra Shramik Patrakar Sangh (Nagpur), and Journalists’ Union of Maharashtra.
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