Home Minister Amit Shah briefs the country on new criminal laws
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Monday that the new criminal laws that went into effect today marked the end of the age of British rules in India, transforming the criminal justice system into ‘completely Swadeshi’. He stated that these measures are consistent with the spirit of our Constitution. He emphasized that once fully implemented, they will be the most current set of legislation.
“I would want to congratulate the people of the country on the fact that, approximately 77 years after independence, our criminal justice system is becoming entirely ‘Swadeshi’. This would be based on Indian ethos. After 75 years, these laws were considered, and now that they are in effect, colonial laws have been repealed and laws enacted by the Indian Parliament are being implemented,” he stated.
The Union Minister stated that “many groups will benefit” from the new criminal legislation, which prioritize women and children.
Instead of ‘Dand’, it is now ‘Nyay’: Amit Shah
“Rather than ‘Dand’, it is now ‘Nyay’. Instead of delaying proceedings, trials and justice will be completed quickly. Previously, only police officers’ rights were protected, but now victims’ and complainants’ rights will be safeguarded as well,” he stated in a press conference, adding that “a swift trial and justice will be granted in lieu of delay.”
Also read: Delhi registers First FIR under new Penal Code “BNS”
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) will now replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) will replace the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC). Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) would replace the Indian Evidence Act, according to the Home Minister.
“We have decided the priority of sections and chapters in line with the spirit of our Constitution. The first priority has been given to (the chapters on) crimes against women and children. I believe that this was needed to be done much earlier,” Shah remarked.
Regarding claims of passing laws without proper debate in Parliament, Amit Shah denied the allegations, adding, “No other law in the history of the country has been discussed in such detail in Parliament”.
