Kunal Ghosh has strongly criticised the newly passed West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026, saying it stands in "total contradiction to constitutional rights" and contains several legal loopholes. His remarks have sparked fresh debate over the controversial legislation in the state.
Speaking to reporters, Ghosh said that while everyone wants strict action against criminal activities and hooliganism, the country already has adequate legal provisions under the earlier Indian Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Code, as well as the new criminal laws, namely the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). According to him, the police and investigating agencies already possess sufficient powers to deal with anti-social activities.
"The bill introduced by the Chief Minister stands in total contradiction to constitutional rights, specifically the rights granted to an accused person and a citizen," Ghosh said, arguing that the legislation could potentially infringe upon fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution. He also alleged that the government pushed the bill through the Assembly using its numerical strength instead of seeking a broader consensus on its legal and constitutional validity.
The West Bengal Assembly passed the Public Safety Bill with 176 votes in favour and 41 against. The state government has defended the legislation, saying it is necessary to tackle organised crime, anti-social activities and criminal conspiracies that existing laws have failed to address effectively. The bill aims to provide the administration with enhanced powers to curb such activities and impose stricter punishments on offenders.
The legislation has, however, drawn criticism from sections of the opposition and civil society groups, who fear that some provisions could be misused and may adversely affect civil liberties. Ghosh's comments have added to the growing political controversy surrounding the bill, with the debate now centring on the balance between ensuring public safety and protecting constitutional freedoms.
Meanwhile, several BJP legislators have welcomed the bill, describing it as a much-needed measure to restore law and order and create a better environment for investment and economic growth in the state. The political battle over the Public Safety Bill is expected to continue as legal experts and opposition parties examine its provisions more closely in the coming days.
