Chandigarh, December 3, 2024:
PM Modi Chandigarh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today took the milestone by dedicating the successful implementation of three new criminal laws to the nation. Chandigarh has emerged as the first administrative unit of India to achieve 100 % implementation of these three laws, replacing the colonial legacy legal framework.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—introduced across the country on July 1, 2024—are replacing the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act. The reforms represent a paradigm change in India’s criminal justice system, one that attempts to bring it into conformity with the Constitution’s vision.
End of Colonial Legacy
Prime Minister Modi stated that these reforms are a milestone in history, saying, “The new laws are a concrete step toward realising the ideals enshrined in the Constitution for the benefit of all citizens. These laws mark the end of colonial-era laws designed to exploit and oppress Indians under British rule.
Highlighting the intent behind the colonial laws, PM Modi said, “The IPC, introduced in 1860, along with the CrPC and Indian Evidence Act, were tools of oppression. The new framework is a step towards delivering justice efficiently and effectively.”
Modern Justice System
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who was also present at the event, appreciated Chandigarh for being a trendsetter in implementing these reforms. “With these laws, justice will be delivered within three years of registering an FIR. Our criminal justice system will now rank among the most modern in the world,” he said.
Shah further commended the Chandigarh administration and police for their role in ensuring seamless implementation, describing it as a model for other states to follow.
Live Demonstration of New Processes
The Chandigarh Police arranged a live demonstration of the new legal framework in crime scene investigation. Prime Minister Modi watched a simulation that showcased improvements in techniques for evidence collection and recording statements. A demonstration held at the Punjab Engineering College demonstrated how updated procedures would make justice delivery smoother.
Chandigarh Senior Superintendent of Police Kanwardeep Kaur further elaborated on the details of the system, saying how it effectively deals with the newer challenges in the form of cybercrime and organized crime.
These revolutionary changes are to make India’s criminal justice system more transparent, efficient, and responsive to contemporary needs of society. The official statement mentioned that the laws offer a robust framework for addressing new challenges while also providing victims with timely justice.
With the Prime Minister were Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, UT Adviser Rajeev Verma, and Chandigarh DGP Surendra Singh Yadav.
Looking Ahead
The rest of the country is bound to follow in the footsteps of Chandigarh to finally implement the legislation to a full extent with this precedent, ushering in an era of new justice and governance in India.
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