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The Brihanmumbai Union of Journalists (BUJ) registered their strong objections to the proposed Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024. citing concerns that the bill will impact press freedom. The proposed Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, was introduced in the State Assembly on December 18, 2024.
The union has cited several concerns over the bill’s impact on civil liberties, freedom of speech, and journalists’ rights. They argue that the bill seeks to target citizens who speak out and question the government and will severely hamper journalists in the pursuit of their work. They demand its withdrawal, arguing the bill’s provisions are overly broad, arbitrary, and prone to misuse. They fear that the bill’s broad definitions and sweeping powers will have chilling effects such as criminalizing dissent, restricting press freedom, and allowing the government to ban organizations and seize property without due process.
Read the complete statement in English here.
Read the complete statement in Marathi here.
