Prime Minister Narendra Modi today dedicated the implementation of three landmark criminal laws—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Indian Penal Code), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (Indian Criminal Procedure Code), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (Indian Evidence Act)—at a significant event held in Chandigarh. The laws, which were rolled out nationwide on July 1, 2024, mark a historic shift away from colonial-era legislation that had long been seen as outdated and ill-suited for a modern democratic society.
Speaking at the event, PM Modi lauded the reforms as a vital step toward creating a more transparent, efficient, and victim-centric justice system. By replacing the British-era laws that have governed India’s criminal justice system for over 150 years, the new laws reflect India’s evolving socio-political landscape and address contemporary challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism, and evolving societal norms.
“Today, we are witnessing a transformation in our justice system, as we bid farewell to colonial-era laws that were designed for a different time. The new laws are designed to prioritize the victims, streamline the justice process, and bring greater accountability to all institutions involved,” said PM Modi, emphasizing that these reforms are a reflection of the government’s commitment to ensuring that justice is swift, fair, and accessible for every citizen.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is a modern replacement for the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, introducing provisions to tackle contemporary crimes such as terrorism, hate speech, and cybercrimes. It aims to protect the rights of the victims while ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. The law also expands the scope of punishments, introducing more stringent measures to curb criminal behavior, while still adhering to principles of fairness.
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), a replacement for the Indian Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), is intended to streamline the processes of investigation, trial, and punishment. With this reform, the government aims to reduce the backlog of cases, improve the efficiency of law enforcement agencies, and deliver justice in a timely manner. Additionally, BNSS incorporates new provisions to protect vulnerable sections of society, including women, children, and the elderly, ensuring their safety within the judicial system.
The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (Indian Evidence Act) has been updated to reflect the rapid advancements in technology. The revised act includes measures for handling digital and forensic evidence, which are increasingly central to modern-day investigations. The changes are intended to enhance the credibility and reliability of evidence presented in court, fostering a more transparent and objective judicial process.
In his address, PM Modi highlighted the importance of these reforms in ensuring that justice is delivered in a manner that is not only swift but also fair and inclusive. “The introduction of these laws signifies our commitment to protecting the rights of every citizen and ensuring that justice is not delayed or denied,” he said.
The government has expressed confidence that the reforms will not only enhance the effectiveness of the criminal justice system but also inspire greater public trust in its ability to deliver justice impartially. With provisions designed to streamline the judicial process and address emerging challenges in law enforcement, these changes are expected to contribute to the creation of a more secure and equitable society.
Legal experts and political leaders have widely hailed these reforms as a crucial step toward modernizing India’s legal framework. Many believe that the new laws will also help reduce the burden on the courts, address concerns related to judicial delays, and encourage more people to come forward to report crimes.
As the country moves toward greater judicial transparency, these reforms are expected to play a key role in strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that India’s criminal justice system is more in tune with the needs and aspirations of its citizens. With this landmark move, the government aims to build a justice system that serves all sections of society, ensuring that the law remains a tool for justice, not just for the privileged few but for every citizen across the nation.
This historic reform, which aligns India’s justice system with global standards, represents a significant leap forward in the country’s legal evolution. The successful implementation of these laws is expected to improve the experience of every citizen within the criminal justice system, marking a new chapter in India’s pursuit of justice.
