“This proposed law will allow the state machinery to infringe on people’s fundamental rights besides muzzle the dissenting voices and organizations that are critical of the government. They will be easily labeled as “illegal” and function will be also restricted. This law does not respect the importance of ideological diversity in a democracy. It will also undermine the independence of the judiciary,” he said.NCP SP MLA and former minister Jitendra Awhad said several provisions in the bill could curtail fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, the right to association, and the right to a fair trial.As per this proposed law, an “illegal act” referred to any action by an individual or organization that threatens public order, peace, or stability, interferes with public order or has a tendency to do so, interferes with the administration of justice, legally established institutions, or government employees, or has a tendency to do so and seeks to instill fear through the use of criminal force or threats against any public servant, including the state or central government forces, while they are exercising their legal authority.As per the proposed law, any member of an organization declared to be unlawful faces up to three years imprisonment and fines up to Rs 3 lakh while non-members contributing to or aiding unlawful organizations face up to two years imprisonment and fines up to Rs 2 lakh. The proposed law also states that District Magistrates or Commissioners of Police can take possession of places used for unlawful activities once an organization is declared unlawful. The government has the power to forfeit money and assets intended for use by unlawful organizations.
Source link
