CM Vishnu Deo Sai : The Chhattisgarh Assembly passed the Jan Vishwas Bill on Friday through a voice vote, marking a significant step toward enhancing ease of doing business and ease of living in the state.
Described as a landmark reform,CM Vishnu Deo Sai, the legislation seeks to decriminalize minor technical violations committed by individuals and business owners, many of which were rooted in outdated colonial-era laws. Such infractions will now result in monetary penalties instead of criminal prosecution.
According to officials, this initiative will help reduce the burden on the judiciary by minimizing unnecessary litigation and will protect citizens from facing criminal charges over minor issues. The bill proposes amendments to 163 provisions under eight major Acts, including the Urban Administration Department laws, Nagar Tatha Gram Nivesh Act, Society Registration Act, Chhattisgarh Industrial Relations Act, and the Chhattisgarh Cooperative Society Act.
CM Vishnu Deo Sai hailed the bill as a major stride toward a “Viksit Bharat – Viksit Chhattisgarh”. He noted that Chhattisgarh has become the second state after Madhya Pradesh to implement the Jan Vishwas Bill, aligning with the broader reforms introduced through the Indian Judicial Code under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
The primary goal of the legislation is to facilitate business and employment opportunities while shielding entrepreneurs and citizens from legal hassles over non-serious offenses. The bill promotes a regulatory framework that is more practical, business-friendly, and empathetic, replacing punitive measures with constructive compliance mechanisms.
With the passage of this bill, regulatory delays—such as late filings—will now incur administrative fines instead of criminal charges, thereby reducing fear among entrepreneurs and encouraging a more supportive business environment in the state.
Key changes under the bill include:
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Amendments to the Chhattisgarh Excise Act, 1915: First-time public alcohol consumption will lead to a fine only, while repeat offenses may still carry jail time.
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Under the Urban Administration Act, landlords failing to report rent increases will no longer face criminal action; instead, a penalty of up to ₹1,000 will be levied.
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Societies delaying annual report submissions will be fined but not prosecuted, with greater leniency for women-led organizations.
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Institutions that unintentionally use the term “cooperative” will no longer be criminally charged — they will face only a simple administrative penalty.
Overall, the Jan Vishwas Bill is set to foster a more trust-based, less punitive regulatory environment that supports growth, simplifies compliance, and minimizes legal risks for citizens and businesses alike.