New Delhi (Agency): Former law minister and current Rajya Sabha MP, Kapil Sibal, vehemently criticized the proposed Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Bill and similar legislations on Sunday, accusing the government of using these bills to impose “dictatorship” in India. These bills aim to replace long-standing laws from the colonial era, but Sibal argues they endanger the nation’s democratic values.
In a press conference, Sibal voiced his concerns about the government’s intentions behind introducing such bills. He stated, “The government talks about ending colonial-era laws, but their goal is to establish dictatorship through these new laws.” He believes these legislations will potentially threaten key pillars of the Indian democracy, including the judiciary and public service sectors.
Sibal emphasized his worries by pointing out potential threats to the judiciary’s independence. He mentioned, “The BNS Bill is so ‘dangerous’ that if passed, only the government’s decisions will prevail in all institutions.” Furthermore, he expressed that this move by the government contradicts the principle of a democratic nation. He noted, “It’s totally against the independence of our judiciary. They clearly don’t want democracy in this country.”
To back his claims, Sibal highlighted specific sections within the BNS Bill, like 254, 255, and 257. He believes these are designed to “intimidate” government officials, forcing them to always agree with the government. He questioned, “Which official, magistrate, or judge would dare oppose the government under such laws?”
Drawing historical comparisons, Sibal commented that even during colonial times, such overreaching laws were not implemented. He addressed Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, questioning their motives behind these proposals. Sibal remarked, “You claim to remove colonial laws, but introduce even more restrictive ones.”
Expressing his deep concern about the country’s future, Sibal advised the opposition parties to thoroughly examine these laws and share their feedback. He also warned the government, stating, “You won’t be in power forever. These same laws might be used against you one day.”
Finally, shedding light on the larger picture, the former Congress leader mentioned how such laws could risk the entire constitutional framework of India.
It’s worth noting that Union Home Minister Amit Shah introduced the BNS Bill, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) Bill, and Bharatiya Sakshya (BS) Bill in the Lok Sabha recently. These bills aim to replace the Indian Penal Code, 1860, Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, and Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Among other changes, these bills propose to expand the definition of sedition, clearly define terrorism, and recommend severe punishments for specific crimes.