Revamping India’s Criminal Justice: New Laws Bring Modernization and Inclusivity

India has overhauled its criminal justice system with the introduction of three new laws. These laws aim to address contemporary social realities and crimes, replacing British-era provisions. Key changes include Zero FIR, electronic communication for reporting crimes, video recording of crime scenes, and greater protection for women and children.

India has ushered in a new era in its criminal justice system with the introduction of three comprehensive laws - the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). These laws, which began to take effect on Monday, are set to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act.

Designed to address modern-day crimes and social realities, the new laws bring significant changes. Fresh FIRs will now be registered under the BNS, with provisions like Zero FIR, online registration of police complaints, and mandatory videography of heinous crime scenes. These reforms aim to enhance justice delivery by ensuring transparency, fairness, and inclusivity.

The new legislation also prioritizes crimes against women and children, introduces electronic communication for reporting incidents, and mandates the presence of forensic experts at serious crime scenes. By simplifying and merging overlapping sections, the laws promise a streamlined legal process, ensuring timely justice and greater protection for vulnerable populations.

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