What are the challenges in transitioning to a low-carbon economy?
In order to shed its colonial baggage and bring reform in penal laws to accommodate modern challenges, India has recently introduced 3 new criminal laws with effect from 1 July, 2024. The new laws- Substantive- Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), replacing Indian Penal Code, 1860, Procedural- Bharatiya NaRead more
In order to shed its colonial baggage and bring reform in penal laws to accommodate modern challenges, India has recently introduced 3 new criminal laws with effect from 1 July, 2024.
The new laws-
- Substantive- Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), replacing Indian Penal Code, 1860,
- Procedural- Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), replacing Criminal Procedure Code, 1974
- Evidence- Bhartiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) replacing Indian Evidence Act, 1872.
Potential Benefits of the laws
- Reduced ambiguities- With regards to organized crime and terrorism, the emphasis on national security is given its due with well-defined crimes.
- Women safety- Criminalises crime against women previously left unchecked. Eg- section 69 penalises sexual intercourse by “deceitful means”.
- Checks misinformation- criminalises the spread of fake news thus improving measures of public order.
- Technological integration- to improve efficiency of process and transparency. Eg- e-FIRs, charge sheets in BNSS.
- Transparency- Measures like videography of search & seizure and stricter timelines improves accountability. Eg- Fast-track courts, summary trials.
Challenges
- Excess police powers- The criminal justice system can be questioned with potential abuse of power in the extension of police custody from 15 to 60 days.
- Uncertainty- Few undefined provision and vague phrases may lead to curbing of dissent. Eg “compromising sovereignty, unity & integrity of India”.
- Implementation issues- Higher burden of evidences procedure and videography on the police might compromise efficiency, burden resources.
With the changing nature of criminal activities and increasing cyber crimes, there is a need to overhaul the justice system to address new and emerging problems while plugging the existing loopholes to reflect contemporary India.
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Transitioning to a low-carbon economy presents several challenges for India. Here are some key challenges identified: Administrative and Socio-economic Heterogeneities: India's diverse administrative and socio-economic landscape poses challenges in implementing uniform climate and energy policies acRead more
Transitioning to a low-carbon economy presents several challenges for India. Here are some key challenges identified:
- Administrative and Socio-economic Heterogeneities: India’s diverse administrative and socio-economic landscape poses challenges in implementing uniform climate and energy policies across states and regions. The geographical distribution of costs and benefits of these policies needs to be carefully understood to ensure equitable outcomes and avoid political resistance .
- Political Economy Constraints: Devising politically feasible policies for the transition to a low-carbon economy requires a deep understanding of how these policies would impact different stakeholders. Concerns over disproportionate impacts on poor households, rising inequality, and concentrated costs on specific groups can undermine public support for climate policies .
- Technological and Infrastructural Challenges: Transitioning to clean energy technologies requires significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure, grid integration, and energy storage. Scaling up emerging technologies such as hydrogen, battery storage, and low-carbon alternatives in sectors like steel, cement, and fertilizers also poses technological and infrastructural challenges.
- Economic Implications: The shift to a low-carbon economy may have economic implications, particularly for sectors heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Balancing the need for economic growth and job creation with the imperative of reducing carbon emissions requires careful planning and policy interventions .
- Limited Evidence and Vulnerabilities: Limited evidence on the needs of those affected by the transition and existing social and economic vulnerabilities can hinder India’s ability to achieve a just and equitable low-carbon development pathway. It is crucial to identify potential transitional challenges across income groups, genders, sectors, regions, and communities to ensure an inclusive and fair transition
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