India’s New Criminal Laws to be Implemented from July 1, Says Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal

New Delhi – On Sunday, Union Minister of State for Law & Justice (Independent Charge) Arjun Ram Meghwal announced that new criminal laws will be introduced from July 1, countering opposition claims of insufficient consultation. The Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Evidence Act are set to be replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act respectively.

Key Announcements and Preparations

Speaking at the inaugural session of ‘India’s Progressive Path in the Administration of Criminal Justice System’, Meghwal emphasized that the transition to the new laws aims to provide timely, speedy, and error-free justice. He highlighted ongoing training programs and infrastructure development crucial for the implementation.

“The three new laws will be implemented from July 1 for providing timely, speedy, and error-free justice,” Meghwal asserted.

Addressing Allegations of Inadequate Consultation

Meghwal responded to allegations from opposition parties regarding the lack of consultation before the decision was made. He clarified that extensive consultations had been carried out over several years.

“Some people claim they were not consulted. This is untrue. The demand for change of colonial laws has been long-standing, and the process began long ago,” he stated.

Consultation Process Details

The minister revealed that suggestions were sought from all states, with 18 states and six Union Territories responding. Additionally, inputs were received from the Chief Justice of India, chief justices of 16 high courts, five law academies, and 22 law universities.

“We contacted all MPs, but only 142, including members from both houses, responded. Suggestions were also requested from all MLAs nationwide, with only 270 responding. We consulted widely, but not everyone provided feedback,” Meghwal added.

He further explained that these laws were the result of four years of thorough consideration and consultation, including 58 meetings chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah.

Moving Away from Colonial-Era Laws

Meghwal emphasized the need to move away from colonial-era laws due to societal advancements and technological involvement.

“With changing times and new technologies, there must be improvements. Citizens were not receiving timely justice, so we have included zero FIR, mercy petition, and gender neutrality. The system had issues, which is why changes are being made,” he explained.

Conclusion

The new laws, Meghwal concluded, are people-centric and timely, aligning with India’s rapid development. The event also saw the presence of Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court TS Sivagnanam, Secretary of the Ministry of Law & Justice Rajiv Mani, and Member Secretary of the Law Commission of India Reeta Vasishta.

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