TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 20, 2024: A transformative shift from punitive measures to justice-oriented legislation is underway in the country. The Modi government, at the center, has introduced positive amendments to laws rooted in the British era. To enlighten both the informed sections of society and the general public about these changes, a workshop titled “New Law: From Penal Code to Justice Code” was conducted today at the Civil Lines Circuit House. The workshop, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Vijay Sharma and attended by Director General of Police Mr. Ashok Juneja, brought together advocates, social service organizations, business entities, editors, journalists, police, and administrative departments.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma asserted that India will now be governed by laws formulated within the country, marking a departure from British-imposed laws. Addressing the workshop organized by the Home Department, he highlighted the novel aspect of the new law, which focuses on providing justice to victims alongside punishing criminals. The new legislation prioritizes justice and security for women and children, showcasing a visionary approach.
Shri Sharma emphasized that the society and the nation will progress with the implementation of the new law, ensuring timely actions under legal provisions. The new law mandates the involvement of a woman officer for first information and investigation in crimes against women. Additionally, it stipulates life imprisonment for offenses jeopardizing India’s unity, integrity, or sovereignty through separatist, armed rebellion, or subversive activities.
The Deputy Chief Minister detailed the significant changes incorporated in the new law, covering colonial laws, women’s safety, justice, terrorism, organized crime, crimes against India’s sovereignty, unity, and integrity, victim-centric legal provisions, scientific technology in research, and digital/electronic evidence. He referred to Article 370, fulfilling the resolve of ancestors after 70 years of independence. Key aspects such as extensive training, technical upgrades, resource and financial management, inter-departmental coordination, and implementation of new law provisions were discussed.
The new law introduces a provision for the maximum death penalty for the crime of murder by mob lynching. The Indian Judicial Code 2023 replaces the Indian Penal Code 1860, reducing sections from 511 to 358 and chapters from 23 to 20. The Indian Civil Protection Code 2023 supersedes the Indian Code of Criminal Procedure 1973, featuring 531 sections instead of 484 and 39 chapters instead of 37. The Indian Evidence Act 2023 replaces the Indian Evidence Act 1972, with 170 sections in place of 167 and 12 chapters instead of 11.
MP Shri Sunil Soni expressed optimism that the new law would expedite justice for victims and enhance police credibility. Director General of Police Shri Ashok Juneja provided detailed insights into the technical aspects of the law during the workshop. The program included comprehensive discussions on the Indian Judicial Code at the Old Police Headquarters with Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Chief Secretary Shri Amitabh Jain, DGP Shri Ashok Juneja, ADG Naxal Operations, Home Department, and Additional Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Pingua.
In attendance were MLAs Shri Purandar Mishra and Shri Motilal Sahu, senior police officers, advocates, Chamber of Commerce officials, various public representatives, media personnel, and distinguished citizens in large numbers.
