Comprehensive Overview of the Gujarat Laws (Amendment of Provisions) Ordinance, 2024

Understanding The Gujarat Laws (Amendment of Provisions) Ordinance, 2024

On July 1, 2024, the Government of Gujarat issued the Gujarat Laws (Amendment of Provisions) Ordinance, 2024, which brings significant changes to several existing laws. The ordinance, outlined in the official notification No. IV-Ex.-7, aims to update and align state laws with recent central legislation. Here, we will explore the key amendments and their implications.

Key Amendments

1. Indian Evidence Act, 1872 to Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023

   • The ordinance replaces references to the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, with the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023. This change modernizes the legal framework, ensuring consistency with current legal standards.

2. Indian Penal Code to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

   • References to the Indian Penal Code are substituted with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. This includes changes in terminology for offences and penalties, reflecting the updated criminal law.

3. Code of Criminal Procedure to Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023

   • The ordinance updates references to the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, replacing it with the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023. This ensures procedural consistency with the new legal code.

4. Specific Amendments to Various Acts

   • Gujarat Lotteries (Control and Tax) and Prize Competitions (Tax) Act, 1958: Updates procedural references to align with the new criminal procedure code.

   • Gujarat Lifts and Escalators Act, 2000: Adjusts definitions and procedural references to the new criminal and evidence laws.

   • Gujarat Drugs (Control) Act, 1959: Empowers Magistrates under the new legal framework.

   • Gujarat Educational Innovations Commission Act, 2009: Revises definitions to comply with updated penal codes.

These amendments signify the state's commitment to keeping its legal system current and coherent with national laws. Legal professionals, businesses, and the general public should familiarize themselves with these changes to ensure compliance and understanding of the new legal landscape.

By staying informed about these amendments, individuals and organizations can navigate the legal system more effectively, ensuring adherence to the latest regulations. For detailed information, refer to the official notification No. IV-Ex.-7 published on July 1, 2024 .

Download