Landmark Overhaul in India’s Criminal Justice System as President Gives Nod to Three Key Bills

Introduction:

In a historic move, President of India, Draupadi Murmu, granted her assent on Monday to three groundbreaking bills aimed at a comprehensive transformation of the country’s criminal justice system.

Details:

This significant development has been officially acknowledged on the Rashtrapati Bhavan website, though it is pending publication in the Gazette of India. The bills in question—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—are poised to supersede the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act.

Legislative Journey:

Originally introduced in Lok Sabha on August 11 under the names Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, these bills underwent thorough examination by a parliamentary committee led by Brij Lal. The Lok Sabha approved them on December 20, followed by the Rajya Sabha’s endorsement on December 21.

Impact:

The overhaul signifies a landmark shift in India’s legal landscape, with a focus on enhancing justice delivery, citizen protection, and evidentiary procedures.

Conclusion:

This pivotal moment marks the culmination of a legislative journey that began in August, positioning India’s criminal justice system for a transformative and modernized future.

BHARTIYA SAKSHYA BILL – PDF

THE BHARTIYA NYAY SANHITA – PDF

BHARTIYA NAGRIK SURAKSHA SANHITA – PDF