In a significant development, Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, emphasizing that the proposed criminal law bills align with the spirit of the Constitution and prioritize the well-being of the country’s citizens. These legislations, collectively known as the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, 2023, aim to replace outdated British-era laws.
Shah, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the bills’ focus on promoting Indianness, adhering to the Bharatiye Constitution, and prioritizing the welfare of the people. The proposed changes, he noted, are in line with the constitutional principles, ushering in a new era and replacing laws rooted in the British colonial period.
One notable aspect of the bills is their encouragement of technology in the justice system. Amit Shah emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to enhance the delivery of justice, signaling a modern and efficient approach to legal proceedings. Additionally, the bills address contemporary concerns, as they now include “mob-lynching” as a punishable offense.
Shah underscored the significance of moving away from British-era laws, which were originally designed to protect foreign rule. The new bills, he stated, are centered around the people, representing a shift towards laws that prioritize the welfare and interests of the citizens.
The Lok Sabha had engaged in a thorough discussion on these bills, seeking to replace the Indian Penal Code of 1860, Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, and Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Last week, Amit Shah introduced the amended criminal law bills, withdrawing the previous ones introduced during the monsoon session.
Explaining the withdrawal of the initial bills, Shah clarified that certain adjustments were needed. The bills had undergone scrutiny by the Standing Committee, and instead of official amendments, it was decided to reintroduce the bills with the necessary changes.
The Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill 2023 collectively mark a significant step towards modernizing India’s legal framework, reflecting a commitment to justice, constitutional values, and the well-being of its people.
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