Centre Introduces Jan Vishwas Bill 2026 to Decriminalise 717 Minor Offences Across 79 Laws

The Union government has introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha, proposing to amend 784 provisions across 79 Central laws.

The Bill seeks to decriminalize 717 minor offences, replacing criminal prosecution and potential imprisonment with monetary penalties and administrative enforcement.

This shift targets several colonial-era statutes, including the Cattle Trespass Act, 1871, and the Works of Defence Act, 1903, moving them toward an adjudication-based framework.

By removing the fear of imprisonment for non-violent violations, the government aims to bridge the trust deficit, reduce judicial burden, and foster a more robust business ecosystem while streamlining compliance in municipal and transport sectors.