Jan Vishwas Bill 2026: Decriminalisation and Ease of Doing Business Explained

Jan Vishwas Amendment Bill 2026: Key Provisions and Governance Reforms

The Government has introduced the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to promote trust-based governance and simplify regulatory compliance across sectors. The initiative builds upon earlier reforms aimed at reducing unnecessary criminalisation.

Scope and Key Amendments

The Bill proposes changes to 784 provisions across 79 Central Acts handled by 23 Ministries. Out of these, 717 provisions are targeted for decriminalisation to support business activities, while 67 provisions aim to improve citizen convenience. In total, more than 1000 offences are proposed to be rationalised by eliminating outdated or redundant clauses.

Shift to Civil Enforcement Mechanism

A central feature of the Bill is the replacement of criminal penalties with civil or administrative actions for minor violations. Instead of imprisonment, penalties will primarily involve fines, warnings or other corrective measures. A graded approach has been introduced, allowing leniency for first-time offences and proportionate penalties for repeated or serious non-compliance.

Institutional Framework for Implementation

To ensure effective enforcement, the Bill provides for the appointment of Adjudicating Officers and the creation of Appellate Authorities. These bodies will handle disputes in a time-bound manner, reduce the burden on courts and ensure fair decision-making based on principles of natural justice.

Consultative Process and Legislative Evolution

The reforms are the result of extensive consultations involving government departments, industry stakeholders and civil society groups. Inputs from NITI Aayog and a Select Committee chaired by Tejasvi Surya contributed to expanding the scope of decriminalisation. The earlier 2025 version of the Bill was withdrawn and replaced with the more comprehensive 2026 proposal.

Exam-Focused Points

• Jan Vishwas Act, 2023 decriminalised 183 provisions (42 Acts)

• 2026 Bill amends 79 Central Acts

• 717 provisions decriminalised , 67 for citizen ease

• Over 1000 offences rationalised

• Introduction of graded penalties (warnings + fines)

• Establishment of Adjudicating Officers & Appellate Authorities