Three Criminal Laws To Come Into Force From July 1, 2024

The Union Government today notified the three Criminal Laws which are set to replace the Indian Penal Code 1860, Criminal Procedure Code 1973 and Indian Evidence Act 1872.

The three laws will be implemented from July 1, 2024. The three laws are Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.

In one of the notification, it was stated that, "In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (45 of 2023), the Central Government hereby appoints the 1st day of July, 2024 as the date on which the provisions of the said Sanhita, except the provision of sub-section (2) of section 106, shall come into force."

Sub Section 2 of Section 106 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita led to massive protests by truck drivers. The Government has abstained from implementing it. Sub Section 2 of Section 106 of the Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita prescribes punishment for persons who cause death by rash or negligent act.

The three laws are meant to revamp the criminal justice system and decolonise it by making it more victim centric and people friendly.