On 23 June 2026, the Ministry of Law and Justice announced the enforcement of those provisions of the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026 that pertain to the Court Fees Act, 1870.
These Amendments will come into force from 8 July 2026.
Key takeaways:
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Jan Vishwas Act, 2026 revises the provisions of the Court Fees Act, 1870, particularly by reducing criminal liability for minor procedural violations and promoting a compliance-based framework.
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A key change is the substitution of Section 34(3), which governs violations by persons authorised to sell stamps.
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The revised provision introduces a clear distinction between fraudulent and non-fraudulent conduct:
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Fraudulent acts (e.g., intentional violation of rules or unauthorised sale of stamps) will attract criminal liability, including imprisonment up to six months, a fine up to ₹10,000, or both.
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Non-fraudulent acts (procedural or inadvertent violations) will attract a monetary penalty up to ₹10,000.
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A new Section 34A introduces adjudication mechanism framework for non-criminal violations.
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Adjudicating officers (not below the rank of Deputy Commissioner/Deputy Collector or equivalent) are empowered to conduct inquiries, summon evidence, and impose penalties.
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No penalty may be imposed without providing a reasonable opportunity of being heard, ensuring procedural fairness.
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A new Section 34B provides for an appeal mechanism:
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Aggrieved persons can file an appeal within 30 days before the Commissioner/Collector or equivalent authority.
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Delay may be condoned for sufficient cause.
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Appeals are to be disposed of within 60 days.
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Any unpaid penalty is recoverable as arrears of land revenue, ensuring enforceability without criminal prosecution.
Read More: Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, 2026: Decriminalization & Penalty Reforms
[Enforcement of Provisions of Court Fees Act 1870 under Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act 2026, dt 23-6-2026]
