India's Lok Sabha Passes Bankers' Books Evidence Bill 2026

The Government of India introduced and passed the Bankers' Books Evidence Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on August 5, replacing the colonial-era Bankers' Books Evidence Act of 1891. Moved by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the legislation establishes a technology-neutral framework that recognizes electronic, digital, virtual, and cloud-based records as admissible evidence in legal proceedings.

The Bill implements a two-track certification system for physical and electronic records, utilizing signatures recognized under the Information Technology Act, 2000. It also defines special cause for the production of records in court and empowers the central government to extend these legal frameworks to other financial entities, including fintech intermediaries and non-banking financial companies.

The legislation passed via voice vote without formal debate due to opposition uproar and sloganeering. The proceedings were marked by disruptions during Question Hour, leading to a brief adjournment. Following the vote, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized the Congress, Left parties, and Samajwadi Party for the disruptions, while Speaker Om Birla had previously urged members to avoid placards to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament.