Shah: New Criminal Laws Driven by Justice

New Delhi, Jaipur: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday described the implementation of the three new criminal laws as a historic reform and the biggest overhaul of India’s criminal justice system in the 21st century.

Speaking after inaugurating an exhibition in Jaipur, Rajasthan, showcasing criminal investigation and prosecution processes under the new laws, Shah said that under the old system, cases would often drag on for 25 to 30 years without sentencing, depriving people of timely justice. He said the new laws aim to ensure easier and faster access to justice, transforming the criminal justice system into one driven by justice rather than punishment.

“The image of the judicial system is such that people often feel discouraged. These new laws will make justice simpler, faster, and more accessible,” he said.

Expressing confidence in the reforms, Shah said that once the new laws are fully implemented, India's criminal justice system will become one of the most modern in the world. He noted that the time-bound procedures introduced under the laws initially faced skepticism, particularly deadlines such as filing chargesheets within 60 days for regular offences and 90 days for serious crimes.

"However, within a year of implementation, over 50 per cent of chargesheets are now being filed on time across the country. I am confident this figure will rise to 90 per cent within another year,” he added.

The minister said that the government has trained lakhs of police personnel, along with thousands of judicial officers and staff from forensic laboratories and prisons, to ensure effective rollout of the new system.

He pointed out that the laws would also reduce the need for physical court appearances, as accused persons could now be presented via video conferencing from jails. Likewise, police officers, doctors, bank employees, and forensic experts will be able to testify remotely, saving both time and money.

"This will also reduce the chances of undertrial prisoners escaping from custody," he said.

Shah noted that provisions such as e-FIR and Zero FIR would simplify the initial stages of filing complaints.

"Earlier, the conviction rate in Rajasthan was 42 per cent. After these laws came into effect, it has risen to 60 per cent. Once implementation is complete, I believe it will reach 90 per cent," he said.

At the exhibition, Shah and other dignitaries observed demonstrations by police officials showing how the new laws have reduced investigation time and improved efficiency. A victim-centric approach of the laws was also highlighted.

The home minister also presided over a virtual groundbreaking ceremony for several development projects, for which MoUs were signed during the 'Rising Rajasthan' investment summit last year. Projects worth ?4 lakh crore were launched out of the total ?35 lakh crore committed during the summit.

"The BJP government delivers what it promises," Shah said.