Amit Shah Defends New Criminal Laws Amid Opposition Criticism

Union Home Minister Amit Shah dismissed opposition criticism regarding the implementation of new criminal laws, asserting that extensive discussions had taken place before their rollout. Shah highlighted that these laws had undergone significant scrutiny, with his attendance at 118 discussion meetings totaling 30 hours involving 34 members. He emphasized that the criminal justice reforms, after 77 years of Independence, now reflect indigenous values.

Addressing allegations of hasty passage without proper debate, Shah clarified that while a few political suggestions were omitted, the majority were thoroughly deliberated upon and incorporated. He urged opposition parties to prioritize national development over politics and expressed openness to renaming laws currently under dispute.

Regarding concerns about increased police powers, Shah assured that the new laws maintain the current 15-day remand period and do not confer additional authority to law enforcement. He outlined plans for a technology-driven justice system to expedite processes from FIR registration to verdict delivery, aiming for Supreme Court resolution within three years of filing an FIR.

Shah highlighted advancements in police modernization, noting that 99% of police stations are now computerized. He emphasized a shift from punitive measures to justice-oriented approaches, aiming for prompt trials and protection of victims' and complainants' rights.