Union Home Minister Amit Shah Introduces Landmark Legal Reforms in Lok Sabha

By TRP Bureau New Delhi, August 12, 2023: In a historic move to modernize India’s criminal justice system and replace colonial-era laws, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, introduced three groundbreaking bills in the Lok Sabha on Friday, Aug 11, 2023 . The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023 are set to revolutionize the legal landscape of the nation.

The bills, aimed at upholding citizens’ rights and ensuring swift justice, mark a significant step towards fulfilling Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision to eradicate the remnants of colonial-era laws. In his August 15 address, Prime Minister Modi vowed to end all traces of subjugation, a pledge that these bills are poised to fulfill.

Highlighting the transformational nature of the reforms, Shri Amit Shah noted that the bills replace archaic laws such as the Indian Penal Code, 1860, Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, and Indian Evidence Act, 1872, which were instituted during British colonial rule to serve imperial interests rather than justice.

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill 2023 will replace the Indian Penal Code, expanding to 356 sections from the previous 511. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill 2023 will supplant the Criminal Procedure Code, with 533 sections, involving 160 amended sections, 9 new sections, and 9 repealed sections. Likewise, the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023, replacing the Indian Evidence Act, will comprise 170 sections, with 23 amended, 1 new, and 5 repealed sections.

Shri Amit Shah emphasized that these new laws aim to protect citizens’ constitutional rights, steering away from punitive measures to promote justice. The updated statutes strive to realign the criminal justice system with Indian values and aspirations.

Reflecting on the meticulous process that led to the formulation of these laws, the Home Minister highlighted that consultations were held with various stakeholders, including state governments, Union Territories, judiciary, academia, and the public. He mentioned his personal involvement in 158 consultation meetings over four years.

The bills incorporate advanced technological provisions to streamline legal proceedings. They expand the definition of documents to encompass electronic records, emails, digital logs, smartphones, and other modern mediums, facilitating paperless trials. Additionally, the digitization of the entire legal process, from FIR registration to judgment delivery, aims to expedite proceedings.

A significant milestone in these reforms is the establishment of the National Forensic Science University to enhance forensic science expertise and raise the conviction rate. This move aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to fostering modern investigative techniques and increasing the conviction ratio above 90%.

The bills introduce several transformative features, including the mandatory videography of search and seizure operations and provisions for video-recorded statements in cases of sexual violence. The concept of Zero FIR, where complaints can be filed outside the jurisdictional police station, aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for citizens. The provision for e-FIR and notifying families of arrested individuals online and in person demonstrates the government’s commitment to transparency.

Recognizing the gender-sensitive approach of the reforms, the Home Minister stressed that the new laws prioritize the protection of women and children. They also address crimes against women, introducing stringent punishments for sexual offenses and gang rape, with provisions for life imprisonment and the death penalty.

The reforms bring an end to colonial-era laws like sedition, while simultaneously introducing provisions to combat modern challenges such as organized crime and terrorism. The shift from punitive to justice-oriented measures and the emphasis on protecting citizens’ rights underline the government’s commitment to fostering a just and inclusive society.

As the bills move through the legislative process, they signify a pivotal moment in India’s legal landscape, heralding a new era where justice is accessible, swift, and aligned with the nation’s core values.