The Times of India

Bengal's anti-goonda law comes into force: What it allows and why the oppn is worried

The Act empowers the BJP government with sweeping powers including preventive detention, property confiscation and the removal of suspected troublemakers from specific areas. The government says the law is aimed at tackling organised crime and anti-social activities, while the Opposition has criticised it as draconian and vulnerable to misuse. The government says the legislation is designed to strengthen public safety.