From today, July 1, 2024, a significant and historic transformation is taking place in the legal framework of India. Three new laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—are being implemented to effectively address crimes. These new laws will replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act.
Chandni Chowk MP, Mr. Praveen Khandelwal, welcomed the implementation of these three laws nationwide, stating that due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s progressive vision, the country is now free from three British-era laws. Mr. Khandelwal mentioned that these new laws do not merely replace the old ones but represent a comprehensive effort to create a more efficient, clear, and just legal system that aligns with India’s current socio-political and technological landscape.
Mr. Khandelwal emphasized that the modernization of the old laws through these new laws brings simplicity and clarity, introduces special provisions for new types of crimes, reclassifies sections with new numbering, incorporates progressive measures, and strengthens laws related to national security.
The new laws have renumbered and reclassified many sections to reflect the contemporary relevance and severity of crimes. Murder will now be covered under Section 101, and fraud under Section 316. The new codes include progressive measures and human rights considerations with stricter provisions against gender-based violence, rape, and other forms of sexual harassment.
Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for this progressive step, Mr. Khandelwal remarked that by replacing the laws established during the 19th century British colonial rule, the government has established a more modern and relevant legal framework suitable for contemporary India. The new laws aim to simplify and clarify legal language and provisions, making them more accessible and understandable for ordinary citizens, which is expected to reduce legal ambiguities and increase judicial efficiency.
He further noted that the new legal codes include special provisions for modern crimes like cybercrime, organized crime, and terrorism, which were not adequately covered under the old laws. This ensures that the legal system is equipped to handle the changing nature of crimes.
Mr. Khandelwal also mentioned that the objective of this restructuring is to streamline the legal process and improve legal reference and interpretation. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita includes robust measures to counter national security threats, reflecting the nation’s commitment to security against internal and external threats. It includes provisions addressing sedition and terrorism, maintaining a balance between security and civil liberties.