Lok Sabha passes three bills to replace IPC, CrPC, Evidence Act
In a significant move, the Lok Sabha has approved three pivotal bills, namely the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, and Bharatiya Saksha (Second) Bill. These bills are set to replace archaic British-era laws, marking a shift towards a justice-oriented criminal code, as emphasized by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
The bills were introduced on August 11 and underwent scrutiny by a parliamentary standing committee before their passage in the Lower House.
During the day-long deliberation, 16 MPs participated, though notably none from the Opposition INDIA collective, which has abstained from proceedings due to the suspension of 97 Lok Sabha members.
Subsequently, the opposition allies have expressed their intention to challenge the bills in the Supreme Court, with a meeting held at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge’s residence.
Minister Shah, in his 97-minute response, highlighted the historical context, stressing that the Indian Penal Code (IPC) was a tool for punishment rather than justice, conceived during British rule. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision to eliminate colonial remnants led to the formulation of these bills, emphasizing civil liberty, human rights, and equality.
The three bills aim to replace the IPC, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Evidence Act, ushering in a modern legal framework. The IPC, dating back to 1860, had faced calls for an overhaul due to its obsolete nature. Minister Shah outlined that the new legislation is citizen-centric, aligning with technological advancements and addressing concerns about unchecked police powers.
Contrary voices, including those of Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Asaduddin Owaisi, voiced apprehensions about potential police abuse and human rights violations. Shah responded by assuring checks on police powers, emphasizing uniform justice across the nation.
The bills introduce changes in handling terrorism, e-FIR registration, addressing corruption in elections, defining mob lynching, enhancing punishment for crimes against women and children, and setting time limits for legal processes.
The sedition law has been repealed, replaced by a provision targeting acts of secession or armed rebellion. However, concerns raised by the opposition about potential loopholes and the existence of dual anti-terror laws persist.
Shah defended the new laws, citing their alignment with constitutional principles, women's rights, and the elimination of archaic practices. The overarching goal is to establish a transformative criminal justice system, aligning with India's 75th year of independence and recent advancements in governance.
lick for more updates and the latest world news, along with Web stories updates. Also, get the latest news and top headlines from India and around the world at Speed News
