Iran Denies Agreement to Renew US Talks amid Rising Maritime Tensions
Rajya Sabha Clears Jan Vishwas Bill 2026 to Decriminalise Minor Offences
Apr 02, 2026Parliament has passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, with the Rajya Sabha approving it following its passage in the Lok Sabha a day earlier. The legislation seeks to amend multiple laws to decriminalise minor offences and promote trust-based governance, aimed at improving ease of living and ease of doing business in the country.
The Bill proposes amendments to 79 Central Acts administered by 23 Ministries. A total of 784 provisions are set to be revised, of which 717 provisions will be decriminalised, while 67 provisions are intended to enhance ease of living. The reforms include rationalising penalties and replacing criminal punishments for minor violations with civil penalties such as fines.
Replying to the discussion, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the Bill marks a significant step towards reducing compliance burden and eliminating the fear of imprisonment for minor infractions. He noted that several outdated colonial-era laws continue to exist and need reform to align with modern governance.
Highlighting the broader impact, the Minister said the initiative would support India’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and strengthen trust between citizens, businesses, and the government. He added that such reforms are essential for building a developed and progressive nation.
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