Jaipur, Oct 13 (NationPress) Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a state-level exhibition focusing on the three new criminal laws on Monday in Jaipur, Rajasthan. He also laid the foundation and launched 1,100 developmental projects spanning various sectors, amounting to around Rs 9,600 crore.

The exhibition at JECC celebrates the first anniversary of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, which took effect on July 1, 2024.

HM Shah pointed out the significant changes these laws are bringing to India’s criminal justice landscape. He stated, "These laws will guarantee that FIRs registered post-2027 are resolved in the Supreme Court within three years. This represents a transition from punishment-oriented to justice-oriented policing," he remarked.

He further explained that this reform aims to eliminate prolonged delays in justice delivery—cases that previously took 25–30 years can now be resolved much more swiftly.

Shah elaborated on advancements in digital justice processes, noting that over 50% of charge sheets are now being filed punctually. He called for a target of achieving 90% timely charge sheets within the next year and advocated for the use of remote video appearances for criminals, police officers, and witnesses. "The fear of punishment has escalated from 42% to 60% in Rajasthan. Once fully enacted, it could rise to 90%," Shah affirmed.

While addressing the audience at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), the Home Minister highlighted that the new criminal laws have significantly heightened the fear of punishment, leading to more efficient law enforcement in Rajasthan.

"Previously, out of 100 arrests in Rajasthan, only 42 resulted in convictions. A year after the new laws were enacted, this conviction rate has improved to 60%. Once fully enforced, this rate is expected to reach 90%," Shah shared.

The Union Home Minister stressed a crucial shift in focus from punitive measures to timely and accessible justice, ensuring that these new laws are being implemented nationwide with the Home Ministry supporting states for effective execution.

He commended Rajasthan DGP Rajiv Sharma, noting, "Before his current position, he significantly contributed to the national implementation of these laws. His role has been invaluable."

Shah underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reformative vision, stating that the new laws align with the government's broader mission to enhance the ease of living. "Many avoid courts due to justice delays. With these three new laws, justice will not only be prompt but also more accessible. The public perception of the judicial system will improve significantly," Shah noted.

"After 2027, any FIR lodged will have the possibility of reaching the Supreme Court within three years. The complete implementation will take an additional two years across the nation," he added.

He encouraged CM Sharma to prolong the exhibition duration to inspire police personnel, lawyers, and law students to engage with the systemic changes.

Describing the day's events as a blend of progress and reform, Shah expressed, "Today’s programme integrates two fundamental pillars—development through Rs 4 lakh crore in investments, and justice through the new legal reforms. Both are vital for a New India."

He mentioned that of the Rs 35 lakh crore in MoUs signed during the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, Rs 3 lakh crore have already been executed, with Rs 4 lakh crore in proposals initiated at the event.

CM Bhajanlal Sharma hailed the new laws as "a landmark shift in India’s judicial framework" and highlighted India’s increasing global stature.

DGP Rajiv Sharma acknowledged Shah for these groundbreaking reforms, referencing the abrogation of Article 370 and efforts against Naxalite insurgencies.

Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma remarked, "This exhibition will help the public recognize that laws are not merely punitive but serve as a framework to guide society."

"Today’s event symbolizes a synergy of development and justice," Shah stated, reflecting on both the exhibition and the launch of extensive projects.

The Union Home Minister reiterated the importance of the National Forensic Science University, established in 2020, for cultivating a new generation of forensic experts. He urged police personnel, lawyers, and law students to participate in the exhibition and suggested extending its duration beyond Diwali.

Shah also took a pointed jab at former Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot, who had expressed doubts about the investment commitments made during the Rising Rajasthan Summit. "Today, the groundbreaking ceremony for investment proposals worth Rs 4 lakh crore was held. I was also present during the Rising Rajasthan Summit," Shah noted.

Responding to Gehlot’s recent remarks questioning the fulfillment of MoUs worth Rs 35 lakh crore, Shah replied directly: "Gehlot questioned how many of those MoUs would be realized. We didn’t respond then. However, today, I wish to clarify—this is a BJP government, not a Congress government. We deliver on our promises."

Shah praised the Bhajanlal Sharma-led administration, indicating that within a brief period, it has implemented MoUs worth Rs 7 lakh crore. "This is a monumental accomplishment. I am confident that the Bhajanlal government will exceed the national average of MoU implementation seen in investment summits throughout the country," he concluded.