"Parliamentary panel examines bills to replace IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act"

Aiming for a modernized justice system

A parliamentary panel has commenced the examination of three bills aimed at replacing the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the Evidence Act. The bills were introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah during the Monsoon session of Parliament and were referred to the standing committee for review. The proposed legislation, which includes the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, seeks to modernize the existing legal framework.

Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla presented a detailed overview of the proposed legislation, shedding light on various aspects of the bills. The bills have been given Hindi names, a point of contention raised by DMK member Dayanidhi Maran during the meeting. Maran suggested that the committee engage in consultations with legal experts across different states, highlighting the importance of understanding the ground-level implications, especially since criminal trials are conducted at the district level.

Also Read: NCF 2023's transformative Board exam changes (arthparkash.com)

Seeking Stakeholder Perspectives

Maran's call for broader consultations with stakeholders received support from opposition members, including Derek O'Brien from the TMC. The sentiment was that the committee should travel to different states to gather diverse perspectives, especially from those involved in the legal profession. This approach aims to ensure that the new legislation effectively caters to the needs of the people and the evolving legal landscape.

Home Secretary Bhalla's presentation on the bills is scheduled to continue for two more days, extending into Friday and Saturday. This comprehensive analysis will cover various dimensions of the proposed changes. After the presentation phase, members of the committee are expected to have an opportunity to seek further clarification from the home secretary. This engagement is anticipated to foster a deeper understanding of the implications of the bills.

The three bills under consideration are part of an overarching effort to modernize India's criminal justice system. Home Minister Amit Shah had introduced these bills with the vision of transforming the legal framework to ensure faster and more efficient justice delivery. He emphasized that the changes were necessary to create a legal system that aligns with the contemporary needs and aspirations of the people.

Also Read: Chandigarh's 'meri maati, mera desh' pays tribute to freedom fighters (arthparkash.com)

The standing committee responsible for reviewing the bills is expected to submit its report within three months. This timeline aligns with the government's plan to present the updated bills for debate and consideration during the next session of Parliament. Brij Lal, a member of the BJP, chairs the Standing Committee on Home Affairs, which is overseeing this critical review process. The proposed overhaul of the existing legal codes reflects a forward-looking approach, intending to bring the legal framework in line with the present-day realities and needs of Indian society.