The Gujarat government is set to introduce the groundbreaking ‘Gujarat Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Bill’ during the upcoming monsoon session of the state legislative assembly from September 8 to 10, aiming to decriminalize minor offences and foster trust-based governance. State Parliamentary and Legislative Affairs Minister Rushikesh Patel announced that the bill, one of five to be tabled, will simplify regulations, reduce court burdens, and enhance ease of doing business and living in Gujarat.

The Jan Vishwas Bill targets amendments to 11 existing laws, including the Gujarat Co-operative Societies Act, 1961, the Gujarat Agricultural Produce and Marketing Act, 1963, and the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976. It proposes replacing jail terms with fines and penalties for minor infractions such as unauthorized construction, public space encroachment, non-removal of filth, tying cattle in public areas, and tax payment defaults. The bill’s Statement of Objects and Reasons emphasizes that outdated regulations create a trust deficit, and decriminalization will streamline compliance and boost the business ecosystem.

Patel highlighted that the reforms aim to eliminate the fear of imprisonment for minor violations, which hinders business growth and individual confidence. “Our goal is to simplify rules, promote ease of doing business, and reduce the burden on courts,” he told reporters in Gandhinagar. The bill’s document, available on the assembly’s website, underscores its role in redefining Gujarat’s regulatory landscape to align with Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business reforms.

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By replacing punitive measures with monetary penalties, the government seeks to reengineer business processes, making life easier for citizens and entrepreneurs. The initiative is expected to alleviate judicial strain and foster a more investor-friendly environment in Gujarat, a state already known for its progressive economic policies. As the assembly prepares to debate the bill, it signals a bold step toward modernizing governance and empowering Gujarat’s economy.

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