Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0: Reforming India’s Overly Punitive Legal System

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-03-21 08:45:01 |

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The Union government has introduced the Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0, aiming to simplify and reform India’s complex legal framework to enhance the ease of living for citizens. With 370 out of 882 central laws carrying criminal provisions, India’s legal landscape has become overwhelming, often punishing minor infractions with severe penalties.

The current system imposes disproportionate punishments for trivial offences. For example, individuals can face imprisonment for failing to report an animal death or for improperly storing e-cigarettes. These excessive criminal provisions blur the lines between serious crimes and minor mistakes, leading to confusion and arbitrary enforcement.

The Jan Vishwas Bill 2.0 focuses on decriminalisation, aiming to create laws that are both humane and enforceable. It advocates for a legal framework that is fair, clear, and proportional to the severity of the offences. The Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy’s report highlights the need for reforms based on four key principles: protection of societal values, prevention of justifiable harm, effective legal solutions, and proportionality in responses.

The Bill intends to shift towards restorative justice, reducing undertrial prisoners and streamlining legal procedures. By addressing these issues, India aims to create a more just and efficient legal system, ensuring that laws reflect societal norms and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

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