CM Devendra Fadnavis calls for all-party meet on security law

Following opposition from several quarters to its proposed security law, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has finally capitulated and called for an all-party committee on Friday to discuss its contentious aspects.

Activists have slammed the government for trying to bestow “too much power” on the police through its proposed Maharashtra Internal Security Act 2016.

Earlier, on August 19, the state government placed the draft of the proposed law in the public domain for seeking suggestions for its modification. The draft of the law was released to invite public suggestions and objections. However, the government has now assumed a cautious stance, and has decided to first seek the approval of the people’s representatives and then place it in the public domain.

“The chief minister wants the draft of the proposed Maharashtra Protection of Internal Security Act before an all-party committee for discussions. Thereafter, it will be discussed in the Cabinet,” additional chief secretary of state for home K.P. Bakshi said on Friday.

“After discussions, public suggestions and objections will be invited. The final draft will be sent to the legislature after the approval of the Cabinet,” he added.

A day earlier, Mr Bakshi had said that the law would strengthen the state’s security and protect its sensitive establishments. The government’s response came amid objections raised by certain activists who had termed the proposed law as “draconian”, even comparing it with the Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

Defending the draft Act, Mr Bakshi also said the proposed law would make security audits compulsory for big establishments. “Currently, there is no provision for a mandatory security audit. We provide security without any assessment. The whole idea of the Act is to protect big establishments such as BPCL, HPCL, ordinance factories and the Navi Mumbai airport, among others,” he said.