Chandigarh sets milestone with swift implementation of new criminal laws: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Chandigarh's initiative as the first state or union territory to fully adopt the three new criminal laws, signaling a significant step towards modernizing India's judicial system.

At a special event held at Punjab Engineering College on Dec 3, Modi, accompanied by Home Minister Amit Shah, dedicated these landmark legal changes to the nation, underscoring their role in ensuring swift justice and replacing colonial-era legislations with contemporary, citizen-focused laws.

Speaking about the transformative impact of these reforms, Modi highlighted a recent case in Chandigarh where an accused in a vehicle theft was sentenced within just two months.

He added that similar examples of expedited justice were witnessed across India, including a 20-year sentence delivered in Delhi within 60 days of FIR registration and a life sentence in Bihar achieved in just 14 days for a murder case.

"These reforms ensure the end of prolonged trials and delays that plagued our legal system," Modi remarked, evoking strong support from the audience with chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" and "Vande Mataram."

Referring to Chandigarh's name, derived from Goddess Chandi—symbolizing truth and justice—the Prime Minister emphasized that the philosophy of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) resonates with these ideals.

He underscored that the new laws reflect principles of equality, harmony, and social justice, moving away from the oppressive intent of colonial-era statutes like the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Evidence Act, and Criminal Procedure Code (CRPC), which were introduced during British rule.

"The IPC, born in 1860 after the First War of Independence in 1857, was a tool to suppress Indians. Despite amendments over time, their essence remained colonial," Modi said, adding, "The Nyaya Sanhita shifts the focus to transparency, fairness, and public trust."

The new laws mandate that charges in heinous crimes such as rape must be framed within 60 days of the first hearing, with verdicts to be pronounced within 45 days of completing the trial.

Chandigarh Police demonstrated the practical application of these reforms through a live session showcasing evidence collection and recording statements.

Praising Chandigarh for leading the way, Modi said the city's proactive adoption of the laws serves as an inspiration for other states and union territories.

Home Minister Amit Shah revealed that since the implementation of these laws, over 11 lakh FIRs had been registered nationwide, with 9,500 cases already resolved.

The PM expressed optimism that these reforms would ensure a more responsive and efficient judicial system, reducing delays and bolstering public confidence. "This marks the beginning of a transparent and accountable justice system, ensuring timely redressal of grievances," he affirmed.

The event was attended by Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajya Sabha MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, and other dignitaries, showcasing a collective commitment to driving change through legal transformation.