Lok Sabha Addresses Criminal Law Bills Amidst Two-Thirds Opposition Suspension

Hyderabad: The Lok Sabha witnesses a significant shift as the suspension of 95 MPs diminishes the opposition's strength to one-third. Seizing this opportunity, the government has brought forth the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, 2023, for deliberation and approval.

Originally introduced in August, these bills seek to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure Act, 1898, the Indian Penal Code, 1860, and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, respectively.

Having withdrawn the initial versions, the government presented revised editions of the bills in the lower house last week, now aptly named the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, 2023. The legislative agenda, taken up on Tuesday afternoon, involves the careful consideration and potential passage of these revamped bills.

This legislative development assumes particular significance given the recent political landscape, characterized by heightened tensions and a reduced opposition presence in the Lok Sabha. The outcome of these deliberations will shape the legal framework, signaling a pivotal moment in the ongoing parliamentary proceedings.