India's New Criminal Laws to be Effective from July 1, 2024

Notification by Ministry of Home Affairs sets implementation date for three new criminal laws passed by Parliament in 2023, with certain provisions on hold.

Key Points

Legislation Approval and Notification: Three new criminal laws passed by Parliament in 2023 to replace colonial-era laws.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam received presidential assent on December 25, 2023.
Implementation Date Set: Ministry of Home Affairs appoints July 1, 2024, as the effective date for new laws, excluding certain provisions.
Delay in notifying implementation date since passage of legislation in 2023.
Training for Law Enforcement: Training required for police officials and judiciary due to overhaul of criminal justice system.
Union Territories prioritizing training, while enthusiasm lacking in some States.
Temporary Suspension of Provision: Section 106(2) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, related to hit-and-run cases, put on hold.
Assurance given to transporters' associations regarding the provision.
Details of Section 106(2) of the Sanhita: Provision imposes punishment for causing death by negligent driving without reporting.
Maximum punishment of imprisonment for up to ten years and fine.
Government's Intention and Actions: Revised bills introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in December 2023.
Government emphasizing the importance of implementing new laws despite challenges.