Amit Shah Announces First Case Under New Criminal Laws in Gwalior

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that the first case under India’s new criminal justice laws was registered in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, involving a motorcycle theft. The case was filed at 12:10 am on July 1, 2024.

During a press conference, Shah explained that the new laws, which replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act, aim to provide speedy justice and protect victims’ rights. He clarified that crimes committed before July 1, 2024, will be tried under old laws, while those after will follow the new laws.

The new laws are the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). These laws received the President’s assent on December 25, 2023, and came into effect on July 1, 2024.

Shah emphasized that the new laws mark a significant shift from colonial-era laws to ones based on Indian ethos. He stated, “Instead of ‘Dand’, it is now ‘Nyay’. Instead of delay, there will be speedy trial and speedy justice. Earlier, only the rights of the Police were protected but now, victims’ and complainants’ rights will be protected too.”