Overview

• The revised Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill restricts its scope to alleged unlawful activities by left-wing extremist organisations instead of individuals.
• A joint select committee considered over 13,000 public submissions and urged a de-radicalization policy to reintegrate youth at risk of Naxal influence.
• An advisory board chaired by a sitting or retired High Court judge, along with a district judge and public prosecutor, will vet any designations and prosecutions.
• Investigations under the bill must be led by officers of at least Deputy Superintendent of Police rank, replacing earlier provisions for sub-inspector–led probes.
• Civil society groups including the Bharat Jodo Andolan have announced a protest march in Mumbai on the first day of the monsoon session to oppose the legislation’s potential misuse.