Vintage Revived: Unpacking three Criminal Law Bills Through a Critical Lens

Abstract

The Indian criminal legal system, established many years ago, faces challenges in adapting to the evolving needs of a fast-changing society and the intricacies of contemporary criminal activity. Its outdated colonial procedures hinder efficient investigation, trial, and fair dispensation of justice. It has been drafted in a complex way, knowingly in order to complicate procedures. On August 11, 2023, the Union government presented three criminal law bills in the Lok Sabha with the resolution to fortify the entire legal framework within the country. These bills have since been referred to the Parliamentary Standing Committee for a comprehensive examination and assessment. The proposed changes within these new bills signify a substantial transformation, promising a complete overhaul of the existing criminal justice system. This transformation is envisioned to expedite the judicial process, ensuring that
justice is dispensed within a span of no more than three years. This article undertakes a comprehensive critical analysis of the proposed bills in comparison to prior legislation.