The 23rd Law Commission of India has been constituted for a three-year term starting from September 1, 2024, and running until August 31, 2027. Its main purpose is to review and recommend reforms in India’s legal system. Let’s explore its key objectives, composition, and terms.
Composition of the Law Commission
The 23rd Law Commission consists of:
- Full-time Chairperson
- Four full-time Members, including the Member-Secretary
- Two Ex-officio Members (Secretary, Department of Legal Affairs, and Secretary, Legislative Department)
- Up to five Part-time Members
The headquarters of the Commission will be located in New Delhi.
Objectives of the 23rd Law Commission
The Law Commission will address various key areas, including:
- Review and Repeal of Obsolete Laws: Identifying laws that are no longer relevant and simplifying legal language and processes.
- Law and Poverty: Examining laws that affect marginalized communities and ensuring legal processes serve the needs of the poor.
- Judicial Administration: Reviewing the judicial system to reduce delays, simplify processes, and harmonize court procedures for swift and fair justice.
- Promoting Gender Equality: Reviewing laws to promote gender equality and recommending amendments.
- Economic Reforms: Identifying laws that do not align with current economic needs and recommending suitable amendments.
Consultation and Collaboration
The Commission will engage with stakeholders, including government departments and experts, to develop recommendations. It may also collaborate with law universities, policy research institutions, and provide internship opportunities to law students.
Legal Reform and Simplification
The Commission’s key focus areas include simplifying procedures, enhancing case flow management, and ensuring that the legal system is responsive to current socio-economic demands. Its recommendations aim to ensure access to justice for all and promote efficient judicial administration.
Partnership and Research
In its mandate, the Commission is also tasked with creating a Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for the periodic review of existing laws and fostering partnerships with law schools to engage in legal research.
Read the Notification here.
