Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026

On 1st April 2026, the Lok Sabha passed the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, aimed at decriminalising minor offences and promoting trust-based governance to enhance ease of living and doing business.

Key Points

Objective:
- Decriminalise minor offences.
- Reduce legal burden and improve compliance.
- Promote ease of doing business and living.
Scope of Amendments:
- Covers 79 Central Acts across 23 Ministries.
- Total 784 provisions to be amended.
- 717 provisions decriminalised.
- 67 provisions aimed at improving ease of living.
Key Features:
- Replacement of criminal penalties with fines.
- Rationalisation of penalties based on severity.
- Focus on justice-oriented approach rather than punishment.
Government’s Stand:
- Emphasised shift from “regulator to facilitator”.
- Aims to reduce unnecessary litigation.
- Seen as a step toward simplifying governance.