Controversy Surrounds Proposed Indian Bills as Opponents Call for English Names
Controversy has erupted in India over a series of proposed bills, with opponents demanding that the bills be given English names. The issue was raised by DMK member Dayanidhi Maran, who submitted a letter stating his objections and demands to the Standing Committee on Home Affairs. Maran argued that the bills should be named in English since it is the common language spoken in all states. He emphasized that without English names, the implementation of the laws would be difficult.
During the committee meeting, several members expressed their support for Maran’s concerns. However, many members, including those from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), praised the overall aims of the bills. Dilip Ghosh, a BJP MP, highlighted the need for measures to ensure justice for victims of crimes in states like West Bengal, where serious cases are often left unregistered.
Opposition members also questioned the introduction of new bills instead of amending the existing laws. Derek O’Brien from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and Digvijay Singh from the Congress party both called for careful consideration by the committee before finalizing its report.
The bills in question were introduced by Home Minister Amit Shah during the Monsoon session of Parliament. The three bills are the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill. They aim to bring significant changes to India’s criminal justice system, including the removal of sedition as an offense and the implementation of stringent measures to protect children from crimes.
In his presentation to the committee, Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla highlighted the key features and gathered feedback from various stakeholders, including chief ministers, judges, governors, and MPs.
The standing committee, tasked with reviewing the bills, will continue its work over the next two days. It plans to convene on September 11 and 12 to gather opinions from domain experts. Bhalla is expected to be present during these sessions as well.
The controversy surrounding the bills has brought to the forefront the ongoing language debate in India. Maran’s objection to the use of Hindi titles and text inside the bills reflects the concerns of non-Hindi speaking states like Tamil Nadu. He argues that Hindi should not be imposed on these states and urges the use of English, a language understood by all stakeholders.
As the discussions continue, the committee aims to complete its report within three months, in time for the upcoming session of Parliament. The bills’ fate and the resolution of the language issue will be closely watched as India navigates its criminal justice reforms.
In summary, the proposed Indian bills have sparked controversy and demands for English names. While supporters praise the bills’ objectives, opponents argue that the use of Hindi titles excludes non-Hindi speaking states. The parliamentary committee is conducting hearings and gathering expert opinions to address these concerns and provide a comprehensive report in due course.
