New laws in force with first case in Gwalior, not Delhi
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced that new criminal justice laws came into force in the country on July 1. He clarified that the first case under these laws was registered in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, not in Delhi as previously reported. The case involved the theft of a motorcycle and was filed at around 12:10 midnight. Shah addressed these points during a press conference when questioned about the case in Delhi that was mistakenly claimed to be the first one under the new laws.
The case registered in Delhi against a street vendor was not actually the first case under the new laws. This provision existed before, and the police utilized it to review the street vendor’s case which was ultimately rejected. Shah emphasized that cases occurring before July 1, 2024, would be prosecuted under the old laws, while those taking place after this date would be subject to the new laws.
Justice over punishment: Home Minister’s perspective
Shah highlighted the significance of the new laws which mark a historic shift towards an indigenous criminal justice system based on Indian values. He expressed optimism that these laws, which replace colonial-era regulations, would prioritize justice over punishment and ensure swift resolution of cases. The Home Minister underscored that the rights of victims and complainants would now receive equal protection alongside those of law enforcement agencies, fostering a more balanced and fair legal framework.
Three new criminal laws, namely the Indian Judicial Code, Indian Civil Defense Code, and Indian Evidence Act, officially came into effect on July 1 after being approved by President Draupadi Murmu on December 25, 2023. Shah commended the country on achieving this milestone after 77 years of independence, heralding a new era in the country’s legal system. Notably, the new laws promise immediate hearings and justice to replace prolonged delays, signaling a departure from past practices that only protected police rights.
