Karnataka Government Opposes New Criminal Laws Enforced by Central Government

The Karnataka government has strongly opposed the implementation of three new criminal laws by the Central government, citing lack of consideration for their suggestions. The laws named Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) have replaced the traditional Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Indian Evidence Act.

In a recent press conference, Karnataka’s Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister, H K Patil, expressed disappointment that the Central government did not incorporate any of their 23 suggestions provided after Union Home Minister Amit Shah requested feedback from CM Siddaramaiah in 2023.

Pointing out the flaws in the new laws, Patil highlighted the lack of public opinion consideration and confusing amendments. He criticized the Central government for enforcing the laws, stating that they should have been implemented during the BJP’s previous tenure.

The Minister emphasized the need for caution, equating the replacement of these laws with amending the Constitution. He underscored the unethical nature of enforcing these laws after the government’s tenure had ended.

Trinamool Congress also criticized the new criminal laws as draconian and accused the Central government of pushing them through Parliament by suspending 146 MPs. The party warned of disastrous implications and raised concerns about civil liberties, privacy violations, and justice delivery inefficiencies.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had previously urged PM Narendra Modi to halt the enforcement of the laws, expressing reservations about the broad offences defined and the increased risks posed by prolonged police custody under the new laws.