21 December 2023

Following the suspension of two more Opposition members in the Lok Sabha, the Parliament gears up for its 14th day of the Winter Session. The session is marked by the presentation of three bills aimed at replacing colonial-era criminal laws. Despite a walkout by 97 suspended MPs, the Upper House passed these bills on Wednesday.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah defended the legislation, emphasizing its alignment with constitutional principles. He highlighted that the proposed laws, including the Bharatiya Nyaya (Second) Sanhita Bill, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha (Second) Sanhita Bill, and the Bharatiya Sakshya (Second) Bill, would significantly expedite the delivery of justice.

Shah addressed concerns about delays in the criminal justice system, stating that the new laws impose time limits on various procedures. Notably, the bills seek to replace the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.

As the suspended member count rises to 143, opposition leaders plan a strategy meeting led by Mallikarjun Kharge. Additionally, the suspended MPs are expected to march from Parliament to Vijay Chowk in protest.

In other legislative matters, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw is set to present the Telecommunications Bill, 2023, in the Rajya Sabha for consideration and passage. The bill aims to amend and consolidate laws related to the development, expansion, and operation of telecommunication services and networks. It had already been approved by the Lok Sabha on Wednesday, adding another layer of significance to the day’s parliamentary proceedings.