India has new law for ‘Ease-of-doing business’ and ‘Ease-of-Living’
Changes made to the laws to decriminalize offences
New Delhi, Apr 3: India has just effected changes in the laws aimed at ensuring ‘Ease-of-doing-business’ and ‘Ease-of-Living’.
The Parliament of India has approved the new legislation called ‘Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026’.
According to the government, the new law advances a governance framework based on trust and proportionate regulation.
The New Law includes:
- Amendment of 784 provisions of 79 Central Acts administered by 23 Ministries
- Decriminalization of 717 provisions to promote ‘Ease-of-Doing’ Business
- Amendment of 67 provisions to facilitate ‘Ease-of-Living’
Redundant provisions:
The new law rationalises more than 1000 offences, removing outdated and redundant provisions thereby improving the overall regulatory environment.
It entails shift from criminal penalties for minor, technical, or procedural defaults to civil and administrative enforcement mechanisms.
Key measures include:
- Replacement of imprisonment provisions with monetary penalties or warnings
- Graded enforcement mechanisms, including warnings for first-time contraventions
- Rationalization of fines and penalties in proportion to the nature of the offence
To ensure efficient and time-bound enforcement, the new law provides for:
- Appointment of Adjudicating Officers
- Establishment of Appellate Authorities
These measures aim to facilitate speedy disposal of cases and reduce litigation burden on courts, while ensuring adherence to principles of natural justice.
The 67 amendments are under:
- New Delhi Municipal Council Act, 1994
- Motor Vehicles Act, 1988
These amendments are aimed at simplifying procedures and enhancing citizen convenience in areas such as municipal taxation and vehicle-related compliance.
