Amit Shah Announces Overhaul of Indian Criminal Justice System with New Laws

In a press conference on Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared a historic overhaul of India's criminal justice system, stating that it has now become fully indigenous and operates based on Indian values and principles. This announcement coincided with the implementation of three new criminal laws: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, which replaced the British-era Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Indian Evidence Act.

Shah assured that the new laws would expedite the criminal justice process, ensuring that cases attain finality within three years from the registration of an FIR. "Once all three laws are fully implemented, it will not take more than three years from filing an FIR to getting justice from the Supreme Court, and I am confident of this," he stated.

The Home Minister emphasized that these laws are designed to deliver justice swiftly while protecting the rights of victims and complainants. "These laws have come into effect with a new perspective and approach, and have started working from this morning," he added.

One significant change highlighted by Shah is the replacement of the sedition law under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code with Section 150 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which addresses anti-national activities. "Sedition was a law that the British made to protect their rule. We have abolished the sedition law and in its place have brought a new section for anti-national activities, creating the most modern justice system," he explained.

Shah also announced that the judicial process would now be accessible in all the languages listed under the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, promoting inclusivity and accessibility. He informed the press that the first case under the new criminal laws was registered at 12:10 AM for theft in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, countering rumors that the first case was against a street vendor.

Addressing allegations from the opposition, Shah clarified that the laws were thoroughly debated in Parliament. "There was a discussion of 9.29 hours in the Lok Sabha on the new criminal laws with participation from 34 members, and over six hours in the Rajya Sabha with participation from 40 members," he noted.

The Lok Sabha passed the three new criminal bills on December 20, 2023, despite the suspension of 97 opposition MPs.

Shah highlighted that the new laws have prioritized sections and chapters in alignment with the spirit of the Constitution. Notably, gang rape will now attract a 20-year imprisonment or life sentence, and the rape of a minor will be punishable by death. There are also new provisions for sexual exploitation by concealing identity or making false promises. Victim statements can now be recorded at their homes in the presence of female officers and family members, and the facility for online FIRs has been introduced to protect women from embarrassment.

"These changes were long overdue and represent a significant step forward in our justice system," Shah concluded.

Author: Anushka Taraniya

News writer