Justice Over Retribution: India’s Criminal Laws Enter a New Era, Says Amit Shah

Image Source: Economic Times

Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared the implementation of India’s three new criminal laws as a historic reform, shifting the justice system’s focus from punishment to fairness and transparency. The laws aim to ensure timely justice, reduce case delays, and modernize investigation and prosecution processes across the country.

India’s Criminal Justice Overhauled: Shah Highlights Shift to Timely and Fair Justice

At a landmark event in Jaipur on October 13, 2025, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the transformative impact of India’s newly implemented criminal laws. Speaking at the ‘Nav Vidhan – Nyay Ki Nayi Pehchaan’ exhibition, Shah emphasized that the reforms mark the biggest overhaul of the criminal justice system in the 21st century.

Key Highlights from Shah’s Address and the Reform Rollout:

Three New Laws Introduced

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)

Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) These replace colonial-era laws with Indian-made statutes focused on justice, efficiency, and accessibility.

Justice-Centric Approach

Shah stated that the new system will be “driven by justice rather than punishment.”

The reforms aim to reduce case durations from decades to just a few years, ensuring timely sentencing and resolution.

Improved Conviction Rates

Rajasthan’s conviction rate has reportedly increased from 42% to 60% since the laws were implemented.

Over 50% of chargesheets are now being filed on time, reflecting improved procedural efficiency.

Technology and Transparency

The new laws promote digital documentation, reduce the need for physical court appearances, and minimize undertrial prisoner escapes.

Shah highlighted the role of tech-enabled investigation and prosecution in speeding up justice delivery.

Timeline for Full Implementation

Shah announced that by 2027, every FIR filed in India will be able to reach the Supreme Court within three years, ensuring nationwide consistency in justice delivery.

Public Perception Shift

The exhibition showcased how the reforms aim to change the image of the judicial system, making it more approachable and trustworthy for citizens.

These reforms signal a paradigm shift in India’s legal framework, prioritizing fairness, speed, and citizen-centric justice over punitive legacy systems.

Sources: MSN India, The Hindu, ThePrint

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