Is the Maharashtra Government Taking a Stand Against Maoist Ideology Organizations? - MoS Yogesh Kadam

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Maharashtra Special Public Security Act targets organizations promoting Maoist ideology.
- 64 organizations in Maharashtra are identified as promoting anti-constitutional beliefs.
- Urban naxalite groups are spreading Maoist ideology in cities.
- The legislation was passed with a voice vote in the assembly.
- The government promises no misuse of the law against political opponents.
Mumbai, July 10 (NationPress) The Minister of State for Home, Yogesh Kadam, announced on Thursday that the recently enacted Maharashtra Special Public Security Act aims to target organizations that adhere to Maoist ideology.
"There are currently 64 organizations operating in Maharashtra that reject the Indian constitution, making their prohibition essential. If any group promotes Maoism without resorting to violence, it is imperative that action is taken against them. This was unachievable under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). Therefore, the government has introduced this new legislation," he stated.
He elaborated, "In various districts of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh, there exists not only Maoism but also urban naxalite organizations that disseminate Maoist ideology throughout urban areas. These groups do not recognize the Indian Constitution; instead, they operate under their own framework, which explicitly commits to dismantling the Indian Constitution. The assembly has passed this bill through a voice vote, with the exception of a CPM legislator who opposed it."
Minister Kadam assured that this law would not be misused against political opponents.
Previously, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who introduced the bill in the assembly, emphasized that ensuring the safety and security of both the state and the nation is paramount, particularly in curbing the activities of groups that threaten democracy and the Constitution.
"There will be no abuse of authority. This legislation is balanced and more progressive compared to similar laws in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand," he affirmed.
The Chief Minister noted that while left-wing extremism in Maharashtra has diminished from five districts to just two talukas, the tactics employed by these groups have evolved.
"Urban Maoists are manipulating young minds and fostering dissent against the system. This law will significantly aid in addressing that challenge effectively," he concluded.