According to the new laws, judgment in criminal cases has to come within 45 days of completion of trial and charges must be framed within 60 days of first hearing. (Image for representation: Getty)
The Impact of New Criminal Laws in India
A recent clash between the BJP and opposition parties has arisen with the implementation of three new criminal laws in India. Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram criticized the government, accusing them of rushing through the laws without proper debate.
The BJP defended the new laws by quoting Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, who hailed them as a milestone in India’s legal system. The laws aim to replace the outdated colonial-era penal code, criminal procedure code, and evidence act starting July 1, 2024.
Chidambaram highlighted the need for further refinement of the laws to align them with constitutional principles. He criticized the lack of debate and discussion surrounding the bills, emphasizing the potentially disruptive impact on the legal system.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah supported the laws, emphasizing their focus on delivering justice over punitive measures. The debate continues as stakeholders examine the implications and call for necessary adjustments to ensure legal efficacy.
(With PTI inputs)