Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasized the transformative role of the new criminal laws in strengthening the democratic fabric of India, asserting that the ‘Nyaya Sanhita’ represents a shift away from colonial-era laws designed to oppress and control the Indian population.
Speaking at an event marking the implementation of the new criminal laws, PM Modi described the old British laws as instruments of exploitation and punishment, designed to keep Indians in a state of subjugation. “The idea and purpose of these laws was to punish Indians and keep them enslaved,” he said. “The laws made by the British regime were tools for oppression. They were introduced when the British, determined to maintain their hold on India, sought to suppress the spirit of independence.”
Recalling the enthusiasm that accompanied India’s independence in 1947, PM Modi said that the freedom struggle, including the pivotal 1857 revolt, had shaken the British Empire. However, the legal framework they left behind continued to reflect their oppressive mentality. “In 1947, we gained independence, but we were still shackled by the colonial laws. We had hoped that with the departure of the British, we would be freed from their laws as well,” he added.
The Prime Minister then highlighted the long and collaborative process involved in the creation of the new criminal laws — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. These laws were developed after extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including Chief Justices of India and High Courts, judicial academics, law institutes, and civil society representatives. He expressed his gratitude to the Supreme Court, judges, and all High Courts for their valuable contributions.
“These laws were crafted with the collective wisdom of experts who studied the challenges faced by the judicial system over the past seven decades. They were tested on futuristic parameters to ensure their effectiveness in addressing contemporary issues like cybercrime and organized crime,” said PM Modi. “I extend my special gratitude to the Supreme Court and all the High Courts for their role in shaping these laws.”
The new criminal laws, which came into effect nationwide on July 1, 2024, aim to modernize India’s legal system, making it more transparent, efficient, and aligned with the evolving needs of society. The reforms seek to improve the criminal justice system’s ability to handle modern-day challenges while ensuring justice for all citizens.
In his address, PM Modi also conveyed his best wishes to the nation, highlighting that the implementation of these laws represents a significant step toward fulfilling the ideals set forth in India’s Constitution, which has now completed 75 years. “This is a concrete effort to implement the ideals envisioned in the Constitution for the citizens of India,” he said. He also encouraged the public to watch live demonstrations of the application of the new laws.
(Inputs from ANI)