In Maharashtra, the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice organized a one-day conference titled ‘India’s Progressive Path in the Administration of Criminal Justice System’ in Mumbai today. Addressing the inaugural session, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law & Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal highlighted that new criminal laws aim to prioritize ‘justice’ over mere ‘punishment’, marking a departure from colonial-era legislations. The Minister emphasized that the formulation of these laws involved extensive consultations with stakeholders, including MPs and MLAs across party lines, as well as common citizens, and incorporated recommendations from the Law Commission of India.
Maharashtra Governor, Ramesh Bais, delivered the valedictory address, in which he highlighted the significant benefits these reforms bring to victims. Mr. Bais said that police and investigative agencies will benefit from clear, updated guidelines and enhanced accountability measures under the new criminal law.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Justice of Bombay High Court, Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya, emphasized the critical role of implementation, urging responsibility among those tasked with delivering justice under the new legal framework.
The conference witnessed participation from different stakeholders including judges, former judges from various High Courts, district and lower courts, advocates, and representatives of law enforcement agencies such as police, CBI, ED, NIA, and law students, among others.
