CJI DY Chandrachud Applauds New Criminal Justice Laws, Foresees Reform in India

Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud hailed the enactment of the new criminal justice laws as a watershed moment for society on Saturday, stating that India is poised for a significant overhaul of its criminal justice system.

Where?

Addressing a conference on ‘India’s Progressive Path in the Administration of Criminal Justice System’, he emphasized that the success of the new laws hinges on citizens adopting them.

The CJI hailed the newly enacted laws as a transition of India’s legal framework on criminal justice into a new era. He underscored that much-needed improvements have been introduced to safeguard the interests of victims and to ensure efficient investigation and prosecution of offences.

Remark

“The enactment of these laws by Parliament is a clear indication that India is changing and advancing, necessitating new legal instruments to address current challenges,” remarked the CJI.

The conference was attended by Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, Attorney General R Venkataramani, and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.

New Criminal Laws

The newly enacted laws- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Act aim to completely overhaul the country’s criminal justice system and will be effective from July 1. However, the provision concerning cases of hit-and-run by vehicle drivers will not be implemented immediately.

These three laws received approval from Parliament on December 21 last year, and President Droupadi Murmu granted her assent on December 25, 2024.

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