July 11, 2025 | Mumbai (Desk) : The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly has passed the Special Public Security Bill, 2025, a new law aimed at tackling what the state government describes as the growing threat of "urban Maoism" and Left extremist ideology in cities. The bill was passed on Thursday despite strong opposition from several political parties and human rights groups.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while speaking in the Assembly, said that urban Maoism is not just an idea anymore, it is becoming an organized threat that is spreading silently through educational institutions, social organizations, and even media. He added that the new law will give law enforcement better tools to prevent the spread of violent, anti-national ideology in urban areas.

What the Bill Says
The Special Public Security Bill allows the state to take strict action against individuals or groups who promote or support Left-wing extremist ideology, especially those who are involved in planning or encouraging violence, disturbing public order, or spreading hatred against the government.

The bill includes the following key points:

The government can ban any organization found to be promoting Maoist or extremist ideology.

Individuals can be arrested or detained for spreading such ideology through speeches, writing, or online content.

Properties linked to banned organizations can be seized.

Special powers will be given to the police to investigate and take quick action.

Supporters of the bill, mostly from the ruling Shiv Sena-BJP alliance, say it is necessary for state security. They argue that extremist elements are trying to create unrest in cities by recruiting youth, spreading propaganda, and hiding behind NGOs, universities, or civil society groups.

Opposition Criticizes the Law
However, the bill has faced sharp criticism from opposition leaders and activists. The Congress and NCP members walked out of the Assembly in protest, calling the bill “dangerous” and “vague.” They said the law could be used to silence critics, arrest students, journalists, or social workers who speak against the government.

Congress leader Nana Patole said, “This is not about security, this is about control. The government is labeling anyone who disagrees as a Maoist.” Activists fear that the law gives too much unchecked power to the police and state government, which could lead to misuse.

Several human rights organizations have already written to the Governor, urging him not to approve the bill until there is more debate and clarity.

Urban Maoism: What Is It?
“Urban Maoism” is a term used by security agencies to describe the spread of Naxalite or Leftist revolutionary ideology in cities, where people are not involved in violence directly but are believed to support it through fundraising, propaganda, or recruitment.

Chief Minister Shinde said, “We are not targeting free speech. We are targeting those who promote violence under the mask of intellectualism.”

As the bill awaits the Governor’s final approval, debates continue about whether this is a genuine step toward security or a risky move that could harm democracy.