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“The law stands with the victim…”: PM Modi Highlights Legal Reforms for Women’s Safety, and Swift Justice under Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted how the newly introduced Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which replaces the Indian Penal Code, safeguards women's rights and expedites justice in cases of rape and sexual harassment. Speaking at the ‘Secure Society, Developed India - From Punishment to Justice’ event in Chandigarh, he emphasized the government’s commitment to women’s safety and justice. The event marked the nationwide implementation of three landmark criminal laws—the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, which came into effect on July 1.
In his address, the Prime Minister noted that a dedicated chapter within the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita focuses on safeguarding women’s rights, particularly in workplaces, homes, and society. “A separate chapter has been kept in the Code of Justice for the protection of women. Rights and safety of women at the workplace, rights of them and children at home and society, the Indian Code of Justice ensures that the law stands with the victim,” said PM Modi.
He added that one of the key provisions of the new law is its swift approach to justice in cases of heinous crimes such as rape. “Another important provision has been made in this. Now charges in heinous crimes like rape against women have to be framed within 60 days from the first hearing. The judgment has also been made mandatory to be pronounced within 45 days of completion of the hearing,” the Prime Minister said.
Narendra Modi also highlighted that the new laws aim to eliminate delays in court proceedings, emphasizing that adjournments in such sensitive cases will be limited to prevent prolonged suffering for victims.
The Prime Minister's speech comes months after the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old PGT doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The horrific incident, which occurred on the hospital campus, sparked widespread outrage and highlighted the urgent need for legal reforms to better protect women in public spaces and workplaces. The tragedy prompted calls for stricter enforcement of laws and faster legal recourse to ensure timely justice for victims of such heinous crimes. In response, the West Bengal Assembly passed the Aparajita Women and Child (West Bengal Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to tackle violence against women. The Bill introduces provisions for capital punishment and strict penalties for rape and sexual harassment.
