Jan Vishwas Bill 2026 decriminalises offences, raises fines 10% every three years

This Bill amends various existing laws to decriminalize and rationalize certain offences, aiming to enhance trust-based governance and make it easier to live and do business. It replaces criminal penalties with administrative penalties for specific violations and establishes procedures for adjudicating these penalties.

The Bill affects individuals and entities subject to the amended enactments listed in the Schedule, including stamp sellers, owners or keepers of cattle and pigs, and other persons liable for penalties under the specific laws being amended (such as the Court-fees Act, 1870, and the Cattle-trespass Act, 1871).

• Amends specific enactments listed in the Schedule to decriminalize offences.
• Increases fines and penalties by 10% of the minimum amount every three years after the Act commences.
• Replaces criminal punishment (imprisonment/fine) with administrative penalties for certain acts, such as stamp selling violations and cattle trespass.
• Establishes 'adjudicating officers' (e.g., Deputy Commissioners, Sub-Divisional Magistrates) to hold inquiries and impose penalties.
• Provides for an appeal process to an 'appellate authority' (e.g., Commissioner, District Magistrate) within 30 days, with appeals to be disposed of within 60 days.
• Allows the Central Government to make orders to remove difficulties in implementing the amendments for up to two years.
• Includes savings clauses ensuring that the amendments do not affect rights, liabilities, or proceedings already existing or completed.

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