Srinagar, Sep 11 : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that the new criminal laws reflect India’s collective vision of justice, marking a shift from colonial-era frameworks toward a legal system focused on accessibility, victim rights, timely justice, and societal needs.
Addressing the gathering at a formal exhibition on India’s new criminal laws, Sinha traced the origins of the new legal framework and its intended impact on justice delivery.
“The country has taken a significant step forward by replacing colonial-era criminal laws,” Sinha said. According to him, these reforms reflect a shift in approach, from punishment to one that centres the rights and needs of victims. He noted that the laws prioritise vulnerable groups in society, particularly women and children, and are designed to ensure quicker access to justice.
Sinha shared that the process of drafting these new laws began in 2019, following a directive from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to reassess laws enacted during British rule.
Consultations were held widely across the country. “From August 2019, states, union territories, judges of the Supreme Court, high courts, law universities, parliamentarians, MLAs, civil society, and the general public were invited to contribute,” he said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs received over 3,200 suggestions. More than 200 senior police officers participated in the consultations, which took place over 2020 and 2021. “There has never been such extensive dialogue on any criminal law in the country,” Sinha added.
He pointed out that crimes against women and children were given priority during the drafting process. Provisions have been added to address new challenges in a changing society, and the laws are structured to ensure speed in legal proceedings. A key feature is the three-year timeline for justice—from the filing of an FIR to the final decision by the Supreme Court.
“Forensic investigation is now mandatory in crimes with punishment of more than seven years,” Sinha said. He also noted the complete removal of the sedition law introduced under British rule.
Capacity-building at all levels of law enforcement and the legal system is underway. “We have been working to ensure full implementation,” he said, noting that awareness campaigns are being planned across Jammu and Kashmir with the help of various departments and agencies.
Sinha said the reforms align with constitutional values of justice, independence, and fraternity. “Justice, in our tradition, originates from the state. It is the duty of the administration to ensure it reaches everyone.”
According to him, the new criminal laws represent a collective vision—a society where justice is accessible, the rule of law is upheld, and dignity is preserved for all.(KNS).
