K'taka govt opposes new criminal laws, says Centre did not take suggestions

On July 1, 2024, three new criminal laws—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—replaced the Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code, and Indian Evidence Act. Karnataka Law Minister H.K. Patil criticized the Centre for ignoring the state's 23 suggestions on these laws and implementing them despite public and legal opposition. He argued that it is unethical for the BJP government to enforce laws from a previous term. The Trinamool Congress labeled the laws "draconian," claiming they introduce broad, over-criminalized offenses and expand police powers, risking civil liberties and justice delivery.