The proposed Jan Vishwas Bill is being seen as a major step towards simplifying India’s legal and regulatory framework by decriminalising minor offences and reducing compliance burdens on citizens and businesses.
Jan Vishwas Bill: Government Pushes to Decriminalise Minor Offences
According to reports, Union Minister Piyush Goyal is preparing to introduce the bill in the Lok Sabha, with special permission from the Speaker as it was not originally listed in the day’s agenda. A detailed discussion on the legislation is likely to take place in the coming days.
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The bill proposes amendments to provisions across 78 existing laws, targeting hundreds of clauses where minor or technical violations currently attract criminal penalties. The key objective is to replace imprisonment in such cases with monetary fines or warnings, thereby shifting the focus from punishment to compliance.
Experts note that India’s legal system has long been criticised
Experts note that India’s legal system has long been criticised for treating even procedural lapses as criminal offences, often resulting in unnecessary litigation and fear among businesses and individuals. The Jan Vishwas Bill aims to address this issue by promoting a trust-based governance model rather than a punitive one.
A significant feature of the bill is its attempt to curb what is often referred to as “Inspector Raj,” a system where excessive regulatory oversight and discretionary powers can lead to harassment and corruption. By reducing criminal provisions and simplifying rules, the government aims to limit arbitrary enforcement and improve ease of doing business.
The proposed legislation is also being viewed as an extension of the earlier Jan Vishwas Act, 2023, which had initiated similar reforms. Officials believe that expanding its scope will further streamline administrative processes, enhance transparency, and build confidence among stakeholders.
If passed, the bill could have wide-ranging implications for sectors governed by multiple regulatory laws, making compliance easier and reducing the fear of criminal prosecution for minor errors. The move aligns with the government’s broader push to improve India’s business environment and reduce legal complexities.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts to modernise India’s legal framework and make governance more citizen-friendly, with an emphasis on accountability, efficiency, and trust.