Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that the three criminal laws, which came into effect from today, will lead to the most modern criminal justice system in the country. He said the criminal justice system is now completely ‘Swadeshi’ and embedded in Indian ethos after independence. Briefing media in New Delhi about the three criminal laws, Mr. Shah said the new laws will ensure speedy justice and victim’s rights. He added that earlier, only the rights of the Police were protected but now, victims’ and complainants’ rights will also be protected.
The Home Minister said, the government has abolished the sedition law with new provisions against anti-national activities. He said the priority in new laws has been given to crimes against women and children. An entire chapter with 35 sections and 13 provisions has been added.
Mr Shah also informed that the heinous crime of gang rape will now attract 20-year imprisonment or life imprisonment, rape of a minor will attract death penalty. Mr Shah apprised that new laws also have a provision of recording statements of the victim at her home in the presence of women officers and her own family. The laws also include the provision of online FIR. New laws will also have the provisions against mob lynching.
Mr Shah also slammed the opposition, alleging that they have been spreading lies about these laws. He said over nine hours of discussion in Lok Sabha and over six hours of discussion was held in Rajya Sabha over these laws and a significant number of opposition leaders participated in the discussion.
