Overview

• State lawmakers approved the Special Public Security Bill, 2024, during July’s monsoon session to curb alleged urban Naxalism and passive militancy
• The legislation imposes heavy fines and up to seven years in prison for individuals designated under its provisions
• An advisory board led by a High Court judge will review group designations to ensure procedural safeguards
• Opposition parties and civil society groups warn that the bill’s broad definitions could be used to stifle peaceful dissent
• Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the law targets only those acting like urban Naxals and will not be used against government critics