Bengal assembly passes bill proposing preventive detention of anti-socials for up to 12 months

West Bengal has enacted a new law, the Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Bill, 2026, allowing for preventive detention of up to 12 months without trial. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stated the bill aims to combat riots and violence, and recover property damage costs. He assured the assembly that the legislation, targeting 'goondas,' would not be misused politically.