India’s criminal justice system, rooted in colonial-era laws, faces criticism due to poor conviction rates and delays. With only 16% convictions in cases registered, the government is re-evaluating the Malimath Committee Report (2003) to modernise policing, prosecution, and judicial processes.

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•  India’s conviction rate ~16%; shows deep systemic inefficiency
•  CJS still based on outdated colonial laws; limited reforms since 1973
•  Rising crime complexity and tech-driven offences strain system
•  Undertrials form 67% of prison population; justice delivery slow
•  Malimath Committee (2003) proposed 158 reforms for overhaul
•  Key ideas: more judges, separate criminal courts, stronger victim rights
•  Suggested inquisitorial investigation system and witness protection
•  Recommended National Judicial Commission and separate prosecution cadre
•  Some suggestions controversial: police confessions, lower proof standard
•  Govt implemented partial reforms: videography, new offences, police modernisation