Amartya Sen Criticizes the Lack of Stakeholder Consultation in New Indian Penal Code Replacement

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen has expressed disapproval over replacing the British-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), stating that the law was changed without adequate consultation with all stakeholders. Speaking in Santiniketan, West Bengal, Sen emphasized that enacting such significant changes without inclusive discussions does not constitute a “welcome change” and highlighted the diverse challenges faced by different Indian states.

Sen pointed out the absence of comprehensive talks before the implementation of BNS, arguing that a diverse nation like India requires thorough consideration of varying regional issues. He remarked that the problems faced by a state like Manipur are distinct from those in Madhya Pradesh, underscoring the necessity for broader dialogue.

The three new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BNA)—came into effect on July 1. These laws, which replace the colonial IPC, Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, were passed by Parliament in December last year amidst significant opposition and suspension of several Members of Parliament.

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