Amit Shah Calls New Criminal Laws Historic Milestone for Delivering Timely Justice

Amit Shah Terms New Criminal Laws Landmark Reform for Swift and Transparent Justice.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday described the rollout of India’s three new criminal laws as a “historic reform” and the most far-reaching change in the country’s criminal justice system in over a century. Speaking at the inauguration of an exhibition at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), Shah said the new legal framework shifts India’s justice system from one based on punishment to one focused on fairness, efficiency, and accessibility.

“The three new laws will provide easy and timely access to justice for all. Our system will now be driven by justice rather than punishment,” he said. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) came into effect on July 1, 2024, replacing the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act.

Highlighting early outcomes, Shah said time-bound provisions — such as filing chargesheets within 60 days for regular offences and 90 days for serious crimes — are already improving efficiency. “Within a year, over 50% of chargesheets are being filed on time. I’m confident this will rise to 90% next year,” he said.

He added that extensive training has been provided to police, judicial staff, and forensic experts to ensure smooth implementation. The Home Minister also said the new system allows video appearances for accused persons, witnesses, and experts, saving both time and resources while strengthening security. Provisions for e-FIR and Zero FIR, he noted, make the process of filing complaints more citizen-friendly.

“Earlier, the conviction rate in Rajasthan was 42%. After implementation of the new laws, it has increased to 60%, and I believe it will soon reach 90%,” Shah said. During the event, Shah viewed demonstrations on how the new laws have streamlined investigations and enhanced victim-centric processes. He suggested extending the exhibition, which is set to conclude on October 18, so that more people could visit.

Later, Shah also virtually inaugurated development projects worth ₹4 lakh crore — part of the ₹35 lakh crore commitments made during last year’s Rising Rajasthan investment summit — saying the BJP government “delivers what it promises.”