Centre withdraws three new Criminal Law Bills, plans to introduce them afresh

Digital Desk: The government has decided to withdraw three crucial bills aimed at replacing existing criminal laws and introducing comprehensive reforms. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, along with the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam bills, was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 11. These bills are set to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure Act, of 1898, the Indian Penal Code, of 1860, and the Indian Evidence Act, of 1872.

Home Minister Amit Shah submitted three identical signed statements to Parliament, revealing that the decision to withdraw the bills was prompted by recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs. This committee engaged in extensive discussions with domain experts and various stakeholders, leading to suggested changes in the bills.

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, introduced on August 11, aimed to repeal and replace the Indian Penal Code, of 1860. The bill was referred to the department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs on August 18 for consideration. After several rounds of discussions with officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice, domain experts, and stakeholders, the committee submitted its reports and recommendations on November 10.

In response to the committee's recommendations, Home Minister Amit Shah conveyed that amendments are proposed in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023. It is now intended to introduce a new bill in place of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, reflecting a commitment to refining and enhancing the proposed legislation.

Similar statements for withdrawal were also made concerning the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam bills. Notably, after the bill's introduction in the Lok Sabha, Shah promptly urged the Chair to send them to the standing committee for a thorough discussion. 

The committee, operating under the Rajya Sabha secretariat, was tasked by Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar to submit its report within three months, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive and informed legislative process. The redrafted bills are anticipated to be introduced in Parliament on Tuesday, reflecting the government's commitment to refining and strengthening criminal laws in India.