Objective
* To decriminalise minor procedural lapses and replace criminal punishment with civil penalties and warnings.
* Aims to improve both Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business.
Major Features
•Amendments proposed in 79 Central Acts administered by 23 Ministries
* Covers 784 provisions, of which:
* 717 provisions relate to decriminalisation
* 67 provisions aim at improving ease of living
4 Pillars of the Bill
•Warning before punishment for first-time/minor lapses
* Proportionate penalties according to seriousness of offence
* Faster resolution through adjudicating officers and appeals
* Dynamic penalty framework with periodic revision of penalties
Important Changes
•Hundreds of offences involving fine/imprisonment converted into civil penalties
•Jail terms reduced or removed in several laws
* Compounding of offences introduced in many cases
•Minor procedural mistakes will no longer attract criminal prosecution
Examples Affecting Citizens
* Refusing to vacate a reserved railway berth: now civil penalty up to ₹1,000 instead of criminal fine
* Driving licence remains valid for 30 days after expiry
* Travelling without ticket becomes a civil offence, not criminal
* Accident victims can approach tribunal up to 12 months later if there is sufficient cause
•Being outdoors at night without “satisfactory explanation” under Delhi Police Act is no longer an offence
Examples Affecting Businesses / MSMEs
* First-time lapses under several laws now attract warnings instead of immediate penalties
•Under Tea Act and Central Silk Board Act: warning for first violation, penalty for repeated offences
* Under Copyright Act: false entry in copyright register no longer punishable with imprisonment
* Small businesses get time to correct errors before penalties are imposed
* Why it Matters
* Reduces harassment and compliance burden
•Encourages voluntary compliance rather than fear of punishment
* Helps MSMEs and startups by reducing criminal liability for minor errors
•Reduces burden on courts by shifting minor cases to administrative mechanisms
Concerns
* Excessive decriminalisation may weaken deterrence in some sectors
* Administrative penalties may still become arbitrary if there is inadequate oversight
* Needs strong safeguards so that serious violations are not treated lightly