New Delhi: In a landmark move, Home Minister Amit Shah introduced three bills in Lok Sabha on Friday to replace colonial-era laws. Shah asserted that the proposed laws will transform the country's criminal justice system and place the protection of Indian citizens' rights at the core.

Shah introduced the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Bill, 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Bill, 2023; and Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) Bill, 2023. These bills will respectively replace the Indian Penal Code, 1860, Criminal Procedure Act, 1898, and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. He emphasized that these changes aim to ensure speedy justice and establish a legal system in line with the contemporary needs and aspirations of the people, according to PTI reports.

The BNS Bill includes provisions to repeal sedition (replaced by Section 150 for acts endangering sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India). It proposes the maximum capital punishment for crimes like mob lynching and rape of minors. The Bill also introduces first-time community service as a punishment for petty offenses. Furthermore, it lists new offenses like acts of secession, armed rebellion, subversive activities, and endangering India's sovereignty or unity and integrity.

Shah emphasized, "These bills will transform our criminal justice system. The aim will not be to punish, but to provide justice. Punishment will be given to create a sentiment of stopping crime." He highlighted how the colonial-era laws were designed to suppress opposition to British rule.

Shah also requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to refer the three Bills for examination by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs.

The minister noted that the focus of the repealed laws was to protect and strengthen British administration, focusing on punishment rather than delivering justice. The new laws, however, place the protection of Indian citizens' rights at the forefront.

Shah highlighted that offenses against women, children, murder, and offenses against the state have been prioritized. He mentioned that various offenses have been made gender-neutral.

The statement of object for the BNSS Bill stated that seven decades of Indian democracy warrant a comprehensive review of criminal laws to align them with contemporary needs and aspirations.

The government's commitment to providing speedy justice to all citizens in line with constitutional democratic aspirations is reflected in the mantra "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas," the statement added. It underlined the government's dedication to a comprehensive review of criminal laws to ensure accessible and swift justice for all.