Mumbai: In a scathing criticism of the newly proposed Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has accused the state government of misusing its legislative power to push what he calls a politically motivated and draconian law. Speaking at a press meet, Thackeray warned that the bill is a direct threat to civil liberties and labeled it a “BJP Protection Bill”.
According to Thackeray, the bill lacks clarity, is open to misuse, and could potentially be used against ordinary citizens under the guise of public security. “This isn’t about Naxalism. In fact, the word ‘Naxalwaad’ doesn’t even appear in the bill. It can be used against anyone — activists, journalists, political opponents, or even common people,” he said.
Taking a dig at the ruling BJP-led alliance, Thackeray questioned Prime Minister Modi’s long-standing slogan “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”, asking whether such authoritarian legislation aligns with that vision. “This is not leftist thinking. This is not rightist either. This is just outright oppressive,” he asserted.
The former Maharashtra CM alleged that the BJP and its allies are introducing the bill to shield themselves from public accountability and suppress dissent ahead of upcoming elections. “They are hiding behind security concerns to curb freedoms,” Thackeray said, adding, “This isn’t a security bill. It’s a political weapon disguised as law.”
Thackeray also expressed concerns over the bill’s broad and vague powers, allowing authorities to detain individuals without concrete evidence, posing a grave threat to democratic rights.
