The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) has brought about significant changes to the Indian criminal law system. The Act aims to replace the outdated Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC). IT introduceS several new offences and amendments to the existing laws.
Journey From Bill to Act
The Act was introduced in Loksabha on 12 December 2023 and it was passed by the Loksabha on 20 December 2023. Later the Rajyasabha passed the Bill on the next date i.e. 21 December 2023.
President Droupadi Murmu accorded her assent to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill 2023 on 26 December 2023. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860. Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, 2023 has replaced the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (CrPC). The Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, 2023 replaced the Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
Major Changes
One of the major changes introduced in the Act is the provision for punishing mob lynching. A group of five or more persons acting in concert and committing murder on the basis of race, caste, or community, among other grounds, will now be punishable with death or imprisonment for life.
The Act also addresses the issue of making false promises of marriage for the purpose of sexual intercourse. It outlines severe punishments for those who employ deceitful means or false promises of marriage to have sexual intercourse with a woman without any intention of fulfilling the promise.
Furthermore, the BNS introduces comprehensive measures to combat organized crime, including kidnapping, robbery, and trafficking, as well as terrorism and acts of sedition.
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By removing outdated and gender-biased provisions from the IPC, the BNS is expected to have a positive impact on Indian society.
Overall, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, 2023 represents a significant step towards modernizing India’s criminal law and addressing the pressing issues faced by the country.
