Meloni Mirrors UP’s Yogi Model, Enforces Harsh Laws to Curb Protests in Italy

International News: After a long uproar and protest, the Italian Senate approved a controversial bill on Wednesday. The implementation of this bill will curb the demonstrations in the country and expand legal protection for law enforcement. This law is also being seen as similar to the Yogi model of Uttar Pradesh, because in this too there is strict punishment for the protesters and the police has been given a free hand. However, human rights organizations have been opposing such laws. The new security decree, introduced by Prime Minister Giordano's right-wing government, was passed by a vote of 109 to 69, with one abstention, after being approved by the lower house last week.

What does the new bill say?

The law imposes harsh penalties for protest-related crimes, including picketing and vandalism that damage property, and gives law enforcement broad powers. It also allows intelligence agents to commit certain crimes for national security purposes without facing prosecution. It also includes the offence of injuring a police officer while on duty, and allocates up to 10,000 euros to cover legal fees for officers investigated for their on-the-job conduct.

Meloni called it a decisive step for safety

“With the security decree receiving final approval in the Senate, the government has taken a decisive step to strengthen the protection of citizens, the most vulnerable groups and the men and women in uniform,” Meloni said on Wednesday.

There will be punishment in these cases too

Other provisions include longer sentences for inmates who riot or disobey orders in prisons and migrant detention centers, and new rules for pickpockets on public transport and those who claim pregnancy to escape prison. The order, promoted by Meloni as part of his promise of "a safe Italy", has sparked protests across Italy in recent months, with human rights bodies accusing the government of criminalising dissent, restricting civil liberties and curtailing the right to protest.