In a significant move to reduce legal complexities and unclog the judicial system, the Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has given its nod to a landmark piece of legislation. On Tuesday, the state Cabinet approved the Delhi Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026, a law designed to decriminalise a host of minor, technical, and procedural violations across various local statutes.
Inspired by Central Vision, Tailored for Delhi
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the Bill is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's overarching Jan Vishwas initiative. It aligns with the central government's Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Acts passed in 2023 and 2025. Following the centre's advice for states to review their own laws, the Delhi government undertook a comprehensive examination of its legal framework.
"Our review revealed that for many minor infractions, civil penalties are a more proportionate response than criminal prosecution," Gupta explained. She emphasised that this shift will help reduce the immense burden on courts and allow the administration to function more efficiently. The core objectives are to enhance the 'ease of doing business' and the 'ease of living' for Delhi's citizens and entrepreneurs.
Seven Key Laws to be Amended
The proposed legislation targets amendments to seven specific Delhi laws. The offences under these acts will see criminal proceedings replaced with civil penalties, administrative fines, and a structured appellate mechanism.
The laws in focus are:
- Delhi Industrial Development, Operation and Maintenance Act, 2010
- Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954
- National Capital Territory of Delhi ‘Incredible India' Bed and Breakfast Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2007
- Delhi Agricultural Produce Marketing (Regulation) Act, 1998
- Delhi Jal Board Act, 1998
- Delhi Professional Colleges/Institutions Act, 2007
- Delhi Diploma-Level Technical Education Institutions Act, 2007
The Chief Minister was quick to clarify that serious offences impacting public health, safety, and life will continue to face stringent criminal action. The decriminalisation is strictly for minor and procedural lapses.
Automatic Fine Revision and Financial Implications
A notable feature of the Bill is a built-in mechanism for the periodic revision of fines. To ensure penalties remain effective and deterring over time, the Bill proposes an automatic 10% increase in fine amounts every three years after implementation. This is intended to keep pace with inflation and rising costs.
Regarding the financial impact, Gupta assured that the Bill will not impose any additional burden on the state exchequer. The changes will be implemented using the existing resources of the concerned departments. The finance department has raised no objection to the proposal, she added.
The Delhi government plans to introduce and pass this Bill in the upcoming winter session of the Delhi Legislative Assembly. This step is seen as a crucial part of the state's administrative and judicial reforms, aiming to create a more business-friendly environment while ensuring justice is swift and proportionate.
