In Chandigarh, PM Modi celebrates full implementation of new criminal laws
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday lauded the successful implementation of India’s new criminal justice reforms, marking a historic shift from colonial-era legal frameworks. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—introduced nationwide on July 1—replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act, respectively.
Chandigarh has emerged as the first administrative unit in the country to achieve 100% implementation of these transformative laws. Speaking at a special ceremony, PM Modi underscored the significance of this milestone, calling the reforms a decisive step toward realising constitutional ideals for all citizens. He said the new laws signified the end of outdated colonial frameworks designed to oppress and exploit.
“The IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act were introduced after the 1857 revolution, not for justice but to enslave Indians further. The new laws, however, aim to empower citizens and ensure justice,” the Prime Minister said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, present at the event, hailed Chandigarh’s leadership in adopting the new legal system. He asserted that the revamped laws would guarantee justice within three years of filing an FIR, positioning India’s criminal justice system among the most advanced in the world. Shah also praised the Chandigarh administration and law enforcement for their swift action in implementing the reforms.
As part of the event, PM Modi attended a live demonstration by the Chandigarh Police, showcasing advanced crime scene investigation techniques under the new legal provisions. The demonstration, held at Punjab Engineering College, featured modern methods for evidence collection and statement recording. Chandigarh Senior Superintendent of Police Kanwardeep Kaur briefed PM Modi on the practical application of these reforms.
Accompanying Prime Minister Narendra Modi were Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, UT Chandigarh Adviser Rajeev Verma, and Chandigarh Director General of Police Surendra Singh Yadav.
An official statement described the new laws as a transformative overhaul of India’s criminal justice system. Designed to address contemporary challenges such as cybercrime and organised crime, the reforms aim to make legal proceedings more transparent, efficient, and victim-centric. These changes also introduce new frameworks to ensure swift and fair justice, reflecting India’s commitment to a modern, equitable legal system. The implementation in Chandigarh serves as a model for other regions, paving the way for a nationwide shift toward better governance and accountability.
- With inputs from agencies
