Congress MP Manish Tewari has called for the formation of a joint committee of Parliament to examine three controversial bills introduced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Tewari expressed concern that these bills, which aim to provide justice and protect the rights of Indian citizens, disregard the principles of freedom of speech and expression. He argued that each provision of the bills should be scrutinized by legal experts from various political parties, comparing them to previous versions and examining relevant judicial rulings.
Amit Shah had introduced the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakhshya Bill, 2023 in the Lok Sabha. These bills seek to replace the British-era Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Indian Evidence Act. Shah emphasized that the purpose of the new laws is to protect citizens’ rights rather than solely focusing on punishment.
Tewari argued that India’s criminal justice system, which has been operating based on laws established by the British Parliament since 1860, needs a comprehensive overhaul that aligns with India’s values. He expressed concern over the existing laws prioritizing crimes such as treason, robbery, and attacks on government officials over heinous crimes like murder or crimes against women.
In response, Shah stated that the new Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, intended to replace the Criminal Procedure Code, will have 533 sections, with 160 sections amended, 9 new sections added, and 9 sections repealed. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, which will replace the Indian Penal Code, will consist of 356 sections, with 175 sections amended, 8 new sections added, and 22 sections repealed. Furthermore, the Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, set to replace the Evidence Act, will include 170 sections, with 23 sections changed, one new section added, and five sections repealed.
The debate surrounding these bills emphasizes the need to strike a balance between protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring justice. Tewari’s call for a joint committee reflects the importance of a thorough examination of the provisions to safeguard individual liberties enshrined in Articles 21 and 22 of the Constitution. Meanwhile, Shah highlights that the new legislation will focus on justice rather than punitive measures, marking a departure from laws that were designed to bolster British rule.
As this issue continues to unfold, it is crucial to maintain journalistic integrity by presenting diverse perspectives and opinions. The formation of a joint committee, comprising legal experts from various political backgrounds, could help ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the bills and foster a balanced assessment of their implications for Indian society. It remains to be seen how the Parliament will proceed with these controversial bills and address the concerns raised by critics like Manish Tewari.
