Central Government Introduces Comprehensive Criminal Law Overhaul Bill

National Desk, 11th August: In a groundbreaking move, the Central government has presented a bill aimed at a complete revamp of the country’s criminal laws. This bill seeks to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 – laws that have been at the core of India’s criminal justice system for over a century.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the bills in the Lok Sabha on Friday, marking a historic shift in India’s legal landscape. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which replaces the Indian Penal Code, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, which replaces the Criminal Procedure Code, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023, which replaces the Indian Evidence Act, all seek to strengthen and modernise the country’s criminal justice system.

One notable change introduced by these bills is the incorporation of community service as a form of punishment for minor offenses. Moreover, fines and penalties for various crimes have been revised and elevated.

Addressing the significance of this legal reform, Home Minister Amit Shah stated, “From 1860 to 2023, the country’s criminal justice system functioned as per the laws made by the British. The three laws will be replaced, and the nation’s criminal justice system will undergo significant transformation.”

However, a point of contention arises with the retention of the sedition law in the new bill, despite its historical connection to British suppression of Indian rebellions during the struggle for Independence.

This groundbreaking legislation marks a pivotal moment in India’s legal history, reflecting the nation’s commitment to a more modern and effective criminal justice system.

Also read: Two Apprehended for Alleged Kidnapping and Murder in Golaghat

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