Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday defended the controversial Public Security Bill in the Legislative Assembly, asserting that the legislation has been thoroughly vetted and does not infringe on citizens’ constitutional rights.

Speaking with media, Fadnavis stated, “The bill was sent to the Joint Select Committee, where every clause was read and examined in detail. I personally reviewed it, and I can confidently say there is nothing in this bill that can be misused or that violates the Constitution.”

Amid criticism from the Opposition, Fadnavis explained that certain suggestions made by Opposition members were taken into account. “Some incidental changes were recommended by the Opposition. We accepted those changes in good faith,” he said.

The bill, which aims to strengthen the legal framework around public safety and law enforcement in the state, has faced pushback from several parties who expressed concerns over potential misuse. However, with the government backing it firmly, the bill was eventually introduced in the Assembly and passed with majority support.

Fadnavis also hit back at the Opposition for “politicising” the legislation, claiming that their concerns were more about optics than substance. “This law is meant to protect public security, not suppress freedom. The criticism is unfounded,” he said.