New Criminal Laws Will Transform Indian Justice System, Says Amit Shah on One Year of BNS, BNSS, BSA

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday said that the three new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—will usher in a fundamental transformation of India’s criminal justice system, making it more affordable, accessible, and approachable.

Speaking at an event in Delhi, marking one year since the enactment of these laws replacing the colonial-era IPC, CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act, Shah said the laws are designed to make the justice delivery system simpler, faster, consistent, and transparent.

“A golden era of governance based on social, economic, and political justice is about to begin. These reforms will replace fear with trust—people will now feel confident that filing an FIR will result in swift justice,” Shah asserted.

The home minister noted that full implementation of the laws will take around three years, during which extensive training and technological integration are underway to ensure smooth transition. Once fully operational, Shah claimed, “India will have the most modern criminal justice system in the world.”

Key Implementation Highlights:

• Over 14.8 lakh police personnel, 42,000 jail staff, 19,000+ judicial officers, and 11,000+ public prosecutors have been trained in the new legal framework.

• 23 states have achieved 100% capacity building, while 11 states and UTs have issued notifications for e-evidence and e-summons.

• Delhi has been ranked the top performer in implementing the new laws swiftly, Shah added.

Major Reforms Under the New Laws:

• Online complaint registration and e-summons via SMS and email.

• Mandatory videography of crime scenes in heinous crimes.

• 20-year minimum sentence for gang rape, with death penalty if the victim is under 12.

• Recognition of new-age crimes like mob lynching and provisions for trial in absentia for fugitives.

• Decriminalisation of outdated offences such as homosexuality, adultery, sedition, and attempt to commit suicide.

The government has described these reforms as “the most significant overhaul of criminal laws in independent India”, replacing colonial constructs with a justice-driven, citizen-first approach.

“The foundation of criminal justice has shifted—from punishment to justice,” Shah concluded.