Delhi Police Trains 45,000 Officers for New Criminal Laws
Chhaya Sharma Leads the Training Effort
New Delhi, India – On July 1, new criminal laws came into effect, replacing the old Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act. Chhaya Sharma, Delhi Police Special CP (Training), announced that over 45,000 officers have been trained for this transition.
New Laws and Training
The new laws are Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. Special booklets were prepared to help officers understand these changes. Training began on February 5, and pocket booklets were distributed to ease the learning process.
Sharma explained that the booklets cover the transition from IPC to BNS, new sections in BNS, categories under seven years of punishment, and sections needed for daily policing. The first round of training was given to Investigating Officers (IOs) and potential IOs in major stations.
Focus on Justice and Digital Evidence
Sharma highlighted that the new system focuses on justice rather than punishment, with a victim-centric approach. Digital evidence and the role of forensic experts have been emphasized. Old cases will continue under the old laws, while new cases will follow the new laws.
First FIR Under New Law
The first FIR under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita was registered at Kamla Market Police Station against a street vendor for obstruction and making sales on a footbridge.
Details of New Laws
The new laws received Parliament’s approval on December 21, 2023, and President Droupadi Murmu’s assent on December 25, 2023. Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has 358 sections, with 20 new crimes added and increased penalties for several offenses. Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita has 531 sections, with numerous changes and additions. Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam has 170 provisions, with several updates and deletions.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the new laws aim to end delays in justice, ensuring resolution within three years.
