BJP government tables public safety and control of anti-social activities bill in Bengal assembly
Kolkata, June 29
The BJP government in West Bengal government on Monday tabled the West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026' in the state assembly with the legislation aimed at tackling "nefarious activities" that pose a threat to the lives and property of citizens.
According to the West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026, the government felt the need for a new legal framework after observing that existing provisions were insufficient to deal with organised anti-social elements.
The government said that it has been observed that certain sections of the society are engaging in anti-social activities, posing a serious threat to the lives and property of the bonafide citizens of the state. The extant provisions of the prevailing Acts and rules were found to be ineffective and inadequate to combat these types of nefarious activities, it added.
The primary objective of the new legislation is to provide the state with more teeth to curb criminal activities and disrupt the planning of such crimes.
With an objective to curb these activities, to severely punish the anti-social elements, and to prevent their conspirational designs, it is considered necessary to bring in some provisions in the form of a new Bill," the government said.
Earlier, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari declared that the Uniform Civil Code will be implemented in the state, mirroring the frameworks adopted in Gujarat, Uttarakhand, and Assam.
Speaking to the media, Adhikari noted that a committee has been constituted under the leadership of a retired judge, and the specific details of the UCC would be shared in the Assembly.
In addition to the UCC Bill, other key legislations, including The West Bengal Backward Classes (Other than Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes) (Reservation of Vacancies in Services and Posts) (Amendment) Bill, 2026 and the West Bengal Commission for Backward Classes (Amendment) Bill, 2026 are on the agenda of the government.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This sounds like a double-edged sword. On one hand, we need strong laws against crime, but on the other hand, such bills can be used to silence dissent. Remember how UAPA and other laws have been used? We need to see the fine print before celebrating.
Finally, a government that takes crime seriously! For too long, goons and anti-social elements have been roaming free in Bengal. This bill, along with UCC, shows the BJP is serious about development and safety. Proud of Suvendu Adhikari ji! 🇮🇳🔥
The article mentions the existing laws were 'ineffective and inadequate'. But isn't the real problem implementation, not lack of laws? We have plenty of Acts, but corruption and political interference make them useless. Let's see if this bill changes ground reality.
One small step for law, one giant leap for Bengal. About time! And UCC too—this government is delivering on its promises. Let's hope opposition doesn't create unnecessary drama in the assembly. We want safety, not politics.
As an expat living in Bengal for 5 years, I can tell you that petty crime and rowdy behavior have increased in some pockets. If this bill is drafted carefully (with safeguards against profiling), it could make the streets safer. Will be watching closely.
M We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.