West Bengal Proposes New Law for Preventive Detention and Property Damage Compensation
The West Bengal BJP government plans to introduce the Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026, aiming to strengthen law enforcement by expanding definitions of 'anti-social activity' and 'goonda.' The bill allows preventive detention for up to 12 months without trial, district bans on individuals, and recovery of compensation for property damage through an independent Claims Commission. While supporters cite the need to curb organized crime and public disorder, critics warn the broad provisions risk criminalizing dissent and undermining due process and transparency.