India to revamp colonial-era criminal laws to end 'signs of slavery'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi leaves after his speech to the nation during a ceremony to celebrate India's Independence Day, which marks the end of British colonial rule. AFP - PRAKASH SINGH

India’s ruling Hindu nationalists have proposed a legislation to remove archaic references to the British monarchy and other 'signs of slavery' to protect the constitutional rights of the Indian people.

Home Minister Amit Shah said sweeping amendments would dismantle the draconian laws used by the British when India was ruled by London.