Fadnavis Says Security Law Permits Criticism, But With a Condition: ‘If You Behave Like Urban Naxal…’
Fadnavis has clearly stated that the Bill is not meant for taking action against individuals who criticise the government, but cautioned that those who behave like urban Naxals will face arrest under its provisions.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis clarified that the Special Public Security Bill is intended to address “urban Naxalism” and will not be used to act against those who voice criticism of the government.
The Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, which seeks to curb illegal activities of Left-Wing Extremist groups, with a particular focus on urban Naxalism and “passive militancy”, was passed by the state assembly during the recent monsoon session.
The legislation includes strict clauses, such as heavy penalties and imprisonment of up to seven years for offenders. These provisions have drawn criticism from civil society organisations and opposition parties, who claim the law could be misused to stifle dissent under the guise of ensuring national security.
Speaking to the press in Nagpur on Saturday, Fadnavis reiterated that the law does not target protesters or government critics.
“If you behave like an urban Naxal, you will be arrested,” he said in response to a query regarding Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray’s challenge to the Chief Minister, daring him to arrest his party members under the newly enacted law.
Responding to Raj Thackeray’s allegation that the Chief Minister was attempting to impose Hindi forcibly on children while not insisting on Marathi for migrants, Fadnavis said Marathi is compulsory in Maharashtra, but students should also learn one more Indian language.
“I am against rolling out the red carpet for English in place of an Indian language,” he added.
