Three New Criminal Laws Passed in Lok Sabha: End of Sedition Law; Death Penalty for Rape and Mob Lynching
Three New Criminal Laws Passed in Lok Sabha: End of Sedition Law; Death Penalty for Rape and Mob Lynching
Three New Criminal Laws Passed in Lok Sabha: Three new criminal laws have been successfully passed in the Lok Sabha. The next step is to present them in the Rajya Sabha, and upon approval, they will be sent to the President for final clearance.
Abolishing Sedition Law and Capital Punishment for Rape and Mob Lynching
While presenting the bills, Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the sedition law, enacted during the British era, has now been abolished. Capital punishment will be imposed for crimes such as rape and mob lynching involving minors.
Imprisonment for Armed Rebellion and Damaging National Property
Regarding the bill on armed rebellion and causing harm to the country’s property, Amit Shah mentioned in the Lok Sabha that the sedition law, crafted by the British, had led to the imprisonment of several national leaders, including Tilak, Gandhi, and Patel, for multiple six-year terms. The law has been in effect until now.
“I have replaced sedition with treason because the country is now independent, and in a democratic nation, anyone can criticize the government. If someone engages in activities that harm the security and property of the country, action will be taken against them,” Amit Shah stated.
“There will be repercussions for anyone who carry out bombings or participate in armed resistance. They won’t have the right to remain free; they will have to go to jail. Some may attempt to interpret it according to their understanding but understand what I have said clearly. Those opposing the country will have to go to jail.”
Death Penalty for Rapists of Minors and Gang Rape Offenders
Previously, Sections 375 and 376 covered rape offenses. Now, amendments in Sections 63 and 69 specifically address rape from the beginning of criminal acts. The law also includes provisions for gang rape offenders. Offenses against children have been further emphasized. Murder, previously under Section 302, is now under Section 101.
Offenders convicted of raping a girl below 18 years of age may face life imprisonment or the death penalty. Those found guilty of gang rape may receive a sentence of up to 20 years or imprisonment until death.