The 21st Law Commission was setup in 2015 under the chairmanship of Balbir Singh Chauhan with 3 years term. It has submitted 15 reports under various heads. Following are some of the important recommendations under various titles -
The Protection of Children (Inter-Country Removal and Retention) Bill, 2016 (report 263): The bill must be aligned with Hague Convention, 1980.
DNA profiling (report 271): A DNA Profiling Board must be constituted which would undertake functions such as laying down procedures and standards to establish DNA laboratories and granting accreditation to such laboratories; and advising the concerned Ministries / Departments of the Central and State Governments on issues relating to DNA laboratories.
Appropriate regulations may be notified by the Board for entry, retention and expunction of DNA profiles, etc.
Implementation of ‘United Nations Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment’ through Legislation (report 273): The commission recommended ratification of UN Convention against torture to ensure easy extradition.
Few changes in “the Prevention of Torture Bill, 2017” were also suggested.
Gambling and Sports Betting including in Cricket in India (report 276): The commission leaves it up to state if it wants to legalize gambling and betting as blanket ban is not possible. If the state wants to legalize gambling, then it recommends to have a proper law which will be based on a three-pronged strategy, reforming the existing gambling (lottery, horse racing) market, regulating illegal gambling and introducing stringent and overarching regulations.
Law Commission of India is only an advisory body to the government and hence to accept its recommendations are upto the state.
