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Left-Wing Extremism
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Context
The Maharashtra government has introduced a new law invoking “Left Wing Extremism” (LWE), raising concerns over criminalising dissent and undermining democratic freedoms.
Conceptual Ambiguity of LWE
- Lack of Legal Clarity: There is no legally codified definition of Left Wing Extremism under Indian law, though the MHA lists banned groups under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
- Vagueness and Misuse: Broad and imprecise references to Maoist ideology allow the state to conflate dissent with extremism, enabling arbitrary and politically motivated action.
- Potential for Ideological Policing: Without a specific legal framework, the term "LWE" becomes a tool for suppressing ideological opponents rather than protecting public order.
Chilling Effect on Freedom of Expression
- Threat to Constitutional Freedoms: The proposed law undermines the right to freedom of speech and expression, protected under Article 19, by arbitrarily criminalising views perceived as extremist.
- Discretionary Powers and Arbitrary Action: The law gives sweeping powers to the police and bureaucracy to judge what constitutes ‘extremist’ speech, without procedural safeguards.
- Duplication of Existing Laws: New penal provisions overlap with existing laws addressing incitement and violence, adding confusion and enabling selective enforcement.
Broader Democratic Implications
- Weaponisation Against Civil Society: Terms like “urban Naxal” are used without legal grounding to discredit activists, journalists, and intellectuals who critique government policy.
- Muzzling of Political Opposition: By associating dissent with extremism, ruling parties can delegitimise opposition voices and stifle democratic deliberation in legislatures.
- Judicial Oversight Must Strengthen: Courts must scrutinise such laws for overreach and ensure that restrictions on expression are not arbitrary, vague, or disproportionate.
Practice Question:
“In the context of recent legislative developments invoking ‘Left Wing Extremism’, critically examine the implications for freedom of expression, dissent, and democratic accountability in India.” (250 words
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