Maharashtra assembly passes ‘historic’ bill to prohibit social boycott

Maharashtra assembly on Wednesday passed the Prohibition of Social Boycott Bill, which aims at eradication of social boycott by extra-judicial bodies such as caste panchayats and communities. The bill has a provision for punishment of up to three years and fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.

In a first in the country, the Maharashtra assembly on Wednesday passed the Prohibition of Social Boycott Bill, which aims at eradication of social boycott by extra-judicial bodies such as caste panchayats and communities. The bill has a provision for punishment of up to three years and fine of up to Rs 1 lakh.

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said the Prohibition of Social Boycott Bill was brought as the existing laws were inadequate to curb instances of social boycott. (PTI)

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said the bill was brought as the existing laws were inadequate to curb instances of social boycott. The CM said in addition to the bill, the existing laws such as the Indian Penal Code, laws related to protection of the human rights will be applied in case of violations.

The bill provides for compensation to the victim, which can, in some cases, be recovered from the accused. It has provisions to prevent certain acts that may lead to boycott and withdrawal of cases with the consent of the victim and permission from the court. In case of a withdrawal, the accused will have to perform community services, according to the directives of the court.