The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed universities and higher education institutions across the country to publicize the new criminal laws and dispel ‘myths’ related to them. Details of all the activities done in this direction will be sent to the Home Ministry.
The ‘myths’ cited by the UGC include that the new laws are a ‘threat’ to individual liberty and are aimed at establishing ‘police raj’. Also, the provisions of sedition have been retained under the section ‘Sedition’ and this law can become a factor of ‘police torture’.
In its message to universities and higher education institutions, UGC has also sent a detailed letter mentioning these myths and truths. UGC Secretary Manish Joshi said, “Higher educational institutions have been requested to publicize the Indian Code of Justice, 2023 around the topics contained in the detailed letter and run exhibition campaigns through publicity material, distribute pamphlets and provide information to lawyers, judges. Organize seminars and talks with serving and retired judges and concerned faculty members of the Institute.
The Indian Evidence Code, 2023, the Indian Civil Defense Code Bill, 2023 and the Indian Judicial Code, 2023 were passed by both houses of Parliament during the winter session. After getting consent from President Draupadi Murmu, it was made a law. They will replace the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 and the Indian Penal Code (IPC) respectively.
