JUDICIAL REFORMS OF: LORD WILLIAM BENTINCK, 1828-35, explain this in elaborate

During his tenure as Governor-General of India from 1828 to 1835, Lord William Bentinck implemented significant judicial reforms that had a lasting impact on the Indian legal system. One of the key reforms introduced by Lord Bentinck was the establishment of the Indian Law Commission in 1834. This commission was tasked with reviewing and codifying existing laws to ensure consistency and clarity in the legal system. The commission’s efforts resulted in the drafting of the Indian Penal Code, which was eventually enacted in 1860 and remains the basis of criminal law in India to this day. In addition to codifying laws, Lord Bentinck also sought to improve access to justice for all citizens. He expanded the jurisdiction of the courts and introduced the concept of legal aid for those who could not afford representation. This move helped to address issues of inequality and ensured that all individuals had a fair chance in court. One significant example of Lord Bentinck’s judicial reforms is the abolition of the practice of sati, or widow burning, in 1829. This barbaric practice had long been a tradition in some parts of India, but Lord Bentinck’s reform outlawed it and marked a significant step towards gender equality and human rights in the country. Overall, Lord William Bentinck’s judicial reforms laid the foundation for a more just and efficient legal system in India. His emphasis on codifying laws, expanding access to justice, and promoting human rights set a precedent for future reform efforts in the country. A verifiable fact related to Lord Bentinck’s reforms is that the Indian Penal Code, which was drafted during his tenure, remains one of the oldest and most influential criminal codes in the world.