New Delhi, July 1 (Agency) The School of Law and Legal Studies at Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University hosted a panel discussion Monday to mark the implementation of three new laws: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor of the University, Padma Shri Prof. (Dr) Mahesh Verma, described the introduction of these laws as “a revolutionary step by the government.” Prof. Verma noted that these laws transition the judicial system from its colonial roots to meet the needs of contemporary India. He emphasised that these reforms will contribute to building a “meaningful, empathetic, and just society.”
Prof. Verma highlighted the importance of raising public awareness about these laws and training those responsible for their implementation. He outlined the various initiatives planned by the University to support this cause. “In these new laws, the term ‘Nyay’ has replaced ‘Dand’, and community service has been introduced as a punishment for minor offences,” he remarked. “This represents an unprecedented change in the Indian judicial system, benefiting every section of society.” Former District & Sessions Judge H.S. Sharma pointed out that the changes in these laws focus primarily on the needs of those seeking justice, ensuring their cases are heard thoroughly at every level. Praveen Sinha, Special Secretary of the National Security Council Secretariat, described the new laws as progressive and citizen-focused. “Their benefits will become apparent in the near future,” he said. Sinha noted that outdated provisions have been removed, and new ones added to reflect the needs of modern society, with special attention given to upholding the dignity of women and the rights of children.
Justice Talwant Singh, a former judge of the Delhi High Court, emphasised the significant role of digital evidence in the new laws. “This will increase digital intervention in the judicial process and the demand for forensic science professionals,” he said. Singh added that the new laws set a time limit for judicial processes, enhancing legal accessibility. Justice M.L. Mehta, also a former judge of the Delhi High Court, criticised premature opposition to the new laws without proper understanding. “These changes are designed with the people’s interests in mind,” he said, highlighting that they will expedite judicial processes and improve access to justice for the common man. Around 800 students and staff participated in the discussion. Dr. Upma Gautam, the programme’s nodal officer, announced plans for more such events to promote awareness of the new laws. In his vote of thanks, University Registrar Dr Kamal Pathak highlighted the crucial role of police, doctors, and lawyers in a democracy. Extending his best wishes on Doctor’s Day, he remarked, “Timely justice is as important as timely medical treatment.”