Bengal Enacts Tough Law to Recover Triple Compensation for Property Damage During Violent Protests
Corresspondent -Ajay Chowdhury/ 6th July 2026
Kolkata: In a significant move aimed at strengthening law and order and protecting public and industrial assets, the West Bengal government has introduced a stringent legal framework under which individuals found guilty of damaging property during violent protests or acts of vandalism will be liable to pay three times the value of the damage.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that offenders would not only face imprisonment but also substantial financial penalties. Explaining the provision, he said that if damage worth ₹1 crore is caused, the convicted individual would be required to pay ₹3 crore as compensation. In cases of non-payment, the government will have the authority to recover the amount by auctioning the offender’s property.
The announcement follows the passage of two key legislations by the West Bengal Assembly on June 28—the West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act, 2026 and the West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act, 2026.
According to the government, the Maintenance of Public Order (Amendment) Act makes individuals financially accountable for damage caused to public or private property during riots, violent demonstrations or vandalism. The legislation seeks to ensure that those responsible bear the full economic consequences of their actions.
The West Bengal Public Safety and Control of Anti-Social Activities Act introduces provisions for preventive detention of up to 12 months in specified cases to maintain public order and curb organised anti-social activities.
Addressing concerns over the right to protest, the Chief Minister reiterated that the government fully supports peaceful democratic demonstrations but will adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards violence and destruction of property.
“The right to peaceful protest is protected, but violence and vandalism cannot be accepted under any circumstances,” he said.
The government believes the new laws will provide stronger protection to industries, infrastructure and public assets while enhancing investor confidence by assuring businesses of a secure operating environment. Officials also maintain that the combination of strict criminal penalties and enhanced financial liability will act as a powerful deterrent against violent protests, thereby promoting stability and fostering a more investment-friendly climate in West Bengal.
