Launch of Report - Trust-Based Governance: Decriminalisation for Development

Time: 03:30 PM – 05:30 PM

Nitesh Anand, Senior Fellow at CCS, delivered the welcome address, briefly introducing the research compendium. Compendium is the 25th edition of the Research Reality, a policy research residency program. The research compendium is based on the theme “Ease of Doing Business and Decriminalisation for development”, aligning with the government. goal ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and to win the trust of the masses ‘Jan Vishwas’. The report identifies 140 laws across six states and central acts for reform, aimed at reducing compliance burdens and promoting a framework of trust-based governance. It is part of CCS’s Research Reality series and aligns closely with the Government’s mission of Ease of Doing Business, Ease of Living, and Viksit Bharat 2047.

India’s future lies in trust-based governance. Simplifying compliance and reducing criminalisation of minor lapses can unlock entrepreneurial energy, attract investment, and accelerate the Modi government’s vision of a developed India by 2047,” said Nitesh Anand, Research Director for the compendium and Senior Fellow at CCS, while presenting the key research insights.

Dr. Jivisha Joshi, Deputy Secretary, DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industries, Government of India, in her inaugural address, underlined that the recently tabled Jan Vishwas Bill, 2025 proposes the decriminalisation of 355 provisions across 16 central acts. She described the move as a bold step towards governance reforms rooted in trust and accessibility. She emphasised the importance of developing personalised best practices instead of merely adopting those recognised globally. She provided a brief overview of the Jan Vishwas Bill.

A panel discussion moderated by Amit Chandra, CEO of CCS, featured Gautam Chikermane (Observer Research Foundation), Dr. Neeti Shikha (University of West England), Dr. Renuka Sane (Trustbridge Rule of Law Foundation), and Swikruti Mohanthy (CCS NextGen Fellow).

The experts highlighted the urgent need to reduce fear-driven governance, emphasising that criminalisation should be limited to serious offences. They cited global practices where risk-based frameworks and monetary penalties ensure compliance while enabling business growth. Speakers also stressed the importance of clear communication, rationalisation of laws, and predictable judicial processes to strengthen citizen and investor trust.

Dr. Renuka emphasised the staggering array of laws that people may inadvertently breach in the course of their everyday activities. Analysed the intricate regulatory landscape and the hurdles faced by businesses seeking to expand in India. She highlighted the necessity for comprehensive reform to simplify compliance processes and enhance governance efficiency.

Dr. Neeti Shikha recounted her experiences of residing in both India and the UK. During her time in the UK, she noted the presence of a high-trust society, characterised by unmanned, automated shops. She highlighted the critical role of trust in regulatory bodies, legal frameworks, and personal relationships. She emphasised her involvement with the World Bank on the Business Enabling Environment project. It was emphasised that effective communication is essential, highlighting the need for regulators to be accessible and to work together collaboratively.
Examples from Singapore and the UK illustrate a risk-based approach, where criminalisation is confined to cases deemed truly necessary. Coaching for defaulters is advised, alongside the implementation of checks to ensure balance without resorting to isolation.

Dr. Gautam highlighted the pressing need for reform, referencing the increasing geopolitical challenges that have emerged since January 20th. He contended that the existing global framework is no longer governed by established rules, but rather influenced by power dynamics, as evidenced by the United States' shift towards isolationism. He analysed the challenges faced by India in its regulatory framework in contrast to the streamlined processes observed in Western nations. It was noted that Europe’s extensive 15,000-page regulatory frameworks could pose additional disadvantages for India. It has been highlighted that despite India's political freedom, the nation continues to face significant economic constraints, presenting a crucial challenge for its burgeoning economy. He stated that “Jan Vishwas” represents a positive initial step yet falls short of addressing the underlying systemic challenges.

Swikruti, while her address emphasised the critical role of trust-based governance in enhancing the welfare of citizens. It has been argued that legal jargon frequently remains inaccessible to the general public, creating challenges in understanding and following the law. She championed the need for streamlined compliance procedures and enhanced public participation in governance.

The panel took a few questions from the audience, allowing for deeper engagement on issues like regulatory reform and the real-world implications of decriminalisation.

Concluding the session, Amit Chandra noted that India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat 2047 requires not just decriminalisation but also law simplification, regulatory clarity, and citizen-centric governance.