Supriya Sule Opposes State Law, Says It Gives ‘Unlimited Powers’ to Govt

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP – Sharad Pawar faction) leader Supriya Sule has strongly opposed the Maharashtra Special Public Security Act Bill, alleging that it grants unlimited powers to government agencies under the guise of preventing illegal acts.

The Lok Sabha MP questioned the Maharashtra government’s intent, asking:

“Is it necessary to establish a ‘police state’ by giving limitless authority to agencies?”

Sule warned that certain provisions in the bill could undermine judicial independence and violate fundamental rights, including freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to a fair trial.

"A Threat to Democracy and Judicial Sovereignty" – Supriya Sule

Sule highlighted key concerns regarding the bill:
Overreach of Government Agencies: The bill’s definition of “illegal acts” appears vague, potentially allowing authorities to target individuals, organizations, and institutions critical of the government.
Suppression of Democratic Dissent: Peaceful protests, criticism of government policies, or organizing rallies could be deemed illegal acts, violating fundamental rights.
Interference in the Judiciary: Some provisions allow the government to interfere in judicial processes, threatening the judiciary’s independence.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Sule wrote:

“This bill gives the government a license to establish ‘police raj’ and misuse power against critics who express constructive opposition through democratic means.”

"Bill Mirrors British-Era Rowlett Act"

Sule compared the proposed law to the draconian Rowlett Act introduced by the British colonial rulers, which allowed imprisonment without trial.

She strongly condemned the bill, stating:

“The British attempted a similar law during their rule. This bill denies the basic principles of our Constitution. We strongly oppose it.”

She urged the Maharashtra government to reconsider the bill:

“The government must review the draft to ensure constitutional values are not violated.”

A Contentious Debate Over Civil Liberties

The Maharashtra Special Public Security Act Bill has sparked a political controversy, with Supriya Sule raising concerns about civil liberties and potential government overreach. As debates intensify, will the government amend the bill to address these concerns, or push it forward unchanged?