The recent session of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha witnessed intense debates as multiple bills were tabled and passed, with opposition legislators raising concerns over specific provisions. The assembly passed four important bills during the ongoing Budget Session, with discussions marked by sharp exchanges between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition Congress. The bills passed include:
1. Haryana Honourable Disposal of Dead Body Bill, 2025
2. Haryana Registration and Regulation of Travel Agents Bill, 2025
3. Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025
4. Haryana Contractual Employees (Security of Service) Amendment Bill, 2025
The BJP-led government in Haryana has defended these bills as necessary reforms to ensure better governance and stricter enforcement of laws. However, opposition leaders demanded greater clarity, scientific accuracy, and stricter oversight mechanisms before implementation.
Ensuring dignified disposal of the deceased
One of the most heated discussions revolved around The Haryana Honourable Disposal of Dead Body Bill, 2025. The bill aims to regulate the process of determining the cause of death and ensuring dignified disposal, especially in cases involving unclaimed or unidentified bodies.
Opposition MLAs B.B. Batra and Ashok Arora raised concerns over a specific clause that allows an investigating officer to determine the cause of death based on “personal understanding.” They argued that such a provision could lead to arbitrary decisions and potential misuse of power. Batra emphasised the need for forensic and material evidence in such cases, stating:
“The cause of death must be established through forensic investigations and scientific methods, not based on an officer’s personal judgment.”
He also demanded that the bill be sent to a select committee for further review.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, however, firmly defended the bill, stating that it was necessitated by the implementation of new criminal laws in the country. He assured the assembly that any required modifications could be made during the rule-framing process. This reflects the BJP government’s commitment to legislative evolution, ensuring that laws remain flexible and adaptable to emerging challenges.
Regulating travel agents to curb immigration fraud
Another major legislative measure introduced by the government was The Haryana Registration and Regulation of Travel Agents Bill, 2025, aimed at curbing fraudulent immigration practices that have deceived thousands of unemployed youth in Haryana.
With numerous cases of innocent job seekers being duped by unscrupulous travel agents promising work visas, foreign education, and easy immigration, this bill seeks to bring accountability and transparency into the travel agency sector. The bill lays out stringent penalties for those engaging in fraudulent immigration practices.
During the debate, former Speaker R.S. Kadian, B.B. Batra, and Ashok Arora questioned the lack of a clear definition of “travel agents” and “immigration agents” in the bill. Arora suggested that the government should incorporate a provision requiring clearance from the immigration authority before registration, ensuring that only legitimate agents operate within the state.
The discussion intensified when Kadian raised the issue of Haryana residents deported from the United States, questioning the government’s stance on their legal status. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini responded by calling them “illegal entrants,” which triggered a broader debate, with Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda demanding a clearer stand from the state government.
Former Home Minister Anil Vij defended the BJP government’s proactive approach, highlighting past measures taken to combat immigration fraud during his tenure. He assured the house that the government remained committed to protecting citizens from fraudulent immigration agents.
Despite opposition protests, the bill was successfully passed, showcasing the BJP government’s determination to bring much-needed reforms to the travel industry.
Cracking down on public gambling
The assembly also passed The Haryana Prevention of Public Gambling Bill, 2025, which replaces the outdated Public Gambling Act of 1867 with modern provisions to curb illegal gambling activities in the state.
The bill introduces harsh penalties, including:
• Minimum fine of Rs 5 lakh
• Imprisonment of up to seven years
• Seizure of properties acquired through gambling proceeds
Congress MLA Aditya Surjewala opposed the bill, calling for a select committee review to refine its provisions. However, the BJP government rejected this demand and passed the bill through a voice vote, underscoring its commitment to strict law enforcement against gambling-related offenses.
The bill empowers police officers to conduct searches and make arrests without warrants if credible information on gambling activities is received. It also targets match-fixing and spot-fixing in sports, prescribing strict jail terms and fines.
Through this law, the BJP government has sent a strong message that illegal gambling and organised betting will not be tolerated in Haryana.
Protecting contractual employees
The final bill passed during the session was The Haryana Contractual Employees (Security of Service) Amendment Bill, 2025, which seeks to enhance job security for contractual employees in the state.
Previously, the law required an employee to complete five years of service with a minimum of 240 working days per year to qualify for job security. The new amendment reduces this requirement, allowing even one year of contractual service with 240 working days to be counted.
This move is seen as a significant step towards reducing job insecurity and providing better employment conditions for Haryana’s workforce. The amendment was introduced through an ordinance on January 31, 2025, and was formally passed with a voice vote.
The government has once again demonstrated its commitment to protecting the rights of contractual employees, ensuring they receive fair and secure employment opportunities.
The passage of these four significant bills shows that the BJP-led Haryana government’s focus on governance, law enforcement, and social welfare. While opposition parties raised concerns over certain provisions, the government remained firm and resolute in implementing reforms that would enhance public safety, regulate key sectors, and provide job security.
By passing these bills, the Haryana government has shown that it is dedicated to modernising laws and addressing contemporary challenges. As these laws come into effect, their real impact will be seen in the strengthened rule of law, protection of citizens, and economic reforms aimed at making Haryana a safer and more prosperous state.
