Overhauling Legal Landscape: Lok Sabha discusses Bills to replace key criminal laws

Criminal Laws: The Lok Sabha engaged in a crucial discussion on Tuesday regarding three bills aimed at replacing foundational legal frameworks—the Indian Penal Code of 1860, Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.

Unveiling Amended Legislation

Last week, Home Minister Amit Shah presented three amended criminal law bills in the Lok Sabha. Termed as The Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, 2023; The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, 2023; and The Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, 2023.

Withdrawal and Redrafting

Earlier, the Home Minister withdrew the bills initially introduced during the monsoon session of parliament. Shah explained that minor modifications were needed, prompting the withdrawal. The bills underwent scrutiny by the Standing Committee, and rather than proposing official amendments, the decision was made to reintroduce the bills.

Legislative Overhaul in Focus

The Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill 2023 are designed to modernise and replace the IPC, CrPC, and the Evidence Act, respectively.

Parliamentary Consultation

During the debate, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad highlighted the extensive consultations that took place concerning the bills. He commended the inclusion of provisions emphasising the use of modern technology in legal proceedings.

"This is the age of technology and information; various provisions in this bill ensure the promotion of digital records, usage of laptops, and trials can happen digitally under new provisions," remarked the BJP MP.

The parliamentary discussions shed light on the comprehensive legislative changes underway, paving the way for a more technology-centric and updated legal framework in India.