Journalists in Pune took to the streets on Thursday, April 3, raising their voices against the Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, which they say poses a serious threat to press freedom and civil liberties.
The protest, led by the Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ), was held outside the District Collectorate. Media professionals, senior editors, and press representatives demanded an immediate withdrawal of the bill, stating that several of its provisions could curb freedom of expression and invite censorship.
PUWJ president Sunit Bhave, general secretary Meenakshi Gurav, and other senior members including Shivaji Shinde, Shailesh Kale, and representatives from the Pune Patrakar Pratishthan were present. A formal memorandum of objections was submitted to District Collector Jitendra Dudi.
🛑 Key Concerns Raised by Journalists and Civil Liberties Advocates
According to the PUWJ and allied media groups, the bill threatens to:
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Weaken constitutional freedoms such as speech, assembly, and privacy.
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Grant sweeping powers to the government to ban organisations based on vague allegations of “unauthorised activities”.
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Allow seizure of property of individuals suspected under the act, even without a trial.
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Create an environment where criticism or dissent can be interpreted as unlawful.
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Empower District Collectors and Police Commissioners to label areas as “unlawful” zones and take control of them.
One of the most controversial provisions is the government’s proposed plan to set up a “media monitoring centre”. Journalists warn that this could lead to state surveillance, press intimidation, and a climate of fear within newsrooms.
🗣️ Why This Matters
Media unions across the state argue that the bill, if passed in its current form, could undermine the independence of the press, discourage investigative reporting, and erode citizens’ trust in democratic institutions.
They are calling for either a complete withdrawal or a comprehensive amendment to ensure that constitutional values are protected.
Laws designed in the name of security must walk a careful line — between public safety and personal freedom. With India being the world’s largest democracy, safeguarding press freedom is not just a professional demand — it’s a public responsibility.
Grolife will continue to track this story and its impact on media autonomy, civil rights, and public discourse in Maharashtra.
