Jan Vishwas Bill 2026 Boosts Ease of Doing Business

The Government has introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to strengthen trust-based governance and simplify India’s regulatory framework. The Bill aims to reduce criminal liability for minor offences and promote ease of doing business and living. It follows approval by the Union Cabinet and builds upon earlier decriminalisation reforms initiated in 2023.

Scope and Key Amendments

The Bill proposes amendments to 784 provisions across 79 Central Acts administered by 23 Ministries. Of these, 717 provisions are set to be decriminalised to support business activity, while 67 provisions aim to improve citizen convenience. Overall, more than 1000 offences are proposed to be rationalised by removing outdated and redundant provisions.

Shift to Civil Enforcement Mechanism

A major feature of the Bill is the transition from criminal penalties to civil and administrative measures. Minor, technical, or procedural violations will no longer attract imprisonment. Instead, penalties will include monetary fines or warnings. The Bill introduces graded enforcement, allowing warnings for first-time violations and proportional penalties based on the nature of the offence.

Institutional Mechanisms for Implementation

To ensure effective enforcement, the Bill provides for the appointment of Adjudicating Officers and the establishment of Appellate Authorities. These measures aim to ensure time-bound resolution of cases, reduce litigation burden on courts, and uphold principles of natural justice. The approach is expected to make compliance processes more efficient and transparent.

Important Facts for Exams

• Jan Vishwas Act, 2023 decriminalised 183 provisions across 42 Central Acts.
• The 2026 Bill amends 79 Central Acts and rationalises over 1000 offences.
• Graded penalties include warnings for first-time violations.
• NITI Aayog played a role in consultative reform processes.

Consultative Process and Legislative Evolution

The reforms are based on extensive consultations involving Ministries, industry bodies, and civil society. A Select Committee chaired by Tejasvi Surya held 49 sittings and submitted its report in March 2026, recommending wider decriminalisation. The earlier 2025 Bill was withdrawn and replaced with the expanded 2026 version, marking a significant step towards modern, proportionate regulation in India.