Lok Sabha approves Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill without debate

NEW DELHI: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill — replacing a British-era law — without discussion amid opposition protests and sloganeering on multiple issues, as members refused to heed the chair’s call to debate the legislation.The government accused the opposition of disrupting proceedings. Parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju accused Congress, Left parties and SP of being against Lord Ram and demanded they apologise to the nation. Referring to the opposition’s skit in Parliament, he said it had “saddened” the government and claimed these parties had opposed Ram temple construction by wearing black bands.Moved by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the bill seeks to align the law with contemporary digital banking practices by recognising digital and virtual records as admissible evidence in courts. Replacing the Bankers’ Books Evidence Act, 1891, it expands the definition of ‘bankers’ books’ to include records maintained in physical, digital, virtual, cloud-based or any other form.Protests disrupted Question Hour, forcing an adjournment till 2pm. The bill was passed by voice vote before the Lok Sabha was adjourned.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.