The Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill: A Challenge to Freedom of Speech and Open Society
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: Indian Polity (Fundamental Rights - Article 19, Public Order, Cognisable Offence), Internal Security (Maoism/Naxalism, Front Organisations).
Mains:
GS Paper 2: Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation; Fundamental Rights; Separation of powers.
GS Paper 3: Linkages between development and spread of extremism; Role of non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security; Security forces and agencies and their mandate.
Essay: Topics on Freedom of Speech, Democracy vs. Security, Draconian Laws.
Key Highlights from the News
The article criticizes the Maharashtra Special Public Security (MSPS) Bill, 2024, passed by the Maharashtra government, as an example of executive overreach in the name of security.
The government claims this law is intended to counter front organisations that spread Maoist ideologies and attract youth.
Under this law, the government can declare any organization it suspects as an "unlawful organization".
The definition of "unlawful" in the law is very broad and vague. It includes any act that "threatens public peace" through words, writing, or signs.
The article argues that this could criminalize thought and speech, posing a danger to democracy and freedom.
Offences under this law are cognisable, meaning the police can arrest without a warrant.
The punishment ranges from two to seven years in prison, along with heavy fines.
There are concerns that the law may be misused to silence political opponents and critics.
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