A new law against hooliganism is now in effect in West Bengal. It allows police to detain suspects for up to a year without a case and use bulldozers on their property.
The state's BJP government has named this law the 'West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill 2026'. With the implementation of this law, the police have gained several new powers to deal with anti-social elements.
The main objective of this law is to strengthen public order and security in the state.
This law was approved in the assembly on June 29. At that time, the 'West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2026' and the 'West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2026' were passed. The Chief Minister had emphasized the necessity of these laws in the assembly.
This new law includes several stringent provisions that grant more powers to the police than before.
Under the law, the police can detain any suspect for up to one year without a case. Individuals declared as 'goondas' can be detained for 12 months.
In serious cases, such individuals will not be allowed to hire a lawyer of their choice. They will only receive legal assistance through the legal aid service provided by the government.
This law also grants the power to use bulldozers on the property of anti-social elements who cause riots and disturbances. There is also a provision to recover compensation from the accused who damage public or private property.
A 'Claims Commission' will be formed to assess the damage and determine the amount of compensation. This commission will ensure that victims receive fair compensation.
The police will also have the authority to order habitual criminals and goons out of a specific area or district. Additionally, to prevent riots, suspects can be taken into custody even before an incident occurs. The law also includes provisions for punishment for those who shelter and help goons.
Political statements have also begun regarding this law. BJP MP Raju Bista has welcomed this move.
BJP MP Raju Bista had said that hooliganism was prevalent during Mamata Banerjee's government. Since the BJP government has come to power in the state, hooliganism has stopped. The money looted from the public will now come into the government's treasury, which will also be used for the public.
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