India Introduces New Criminal Laws
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam
New Delhi [India], July 1: Starting today, India will see a major change in its criminal justice system with the introduction of three new laws: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). These laws will replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.
The new laws were passed by Parliament on December 21, 2023, and received the President’s approval on December 25, 2023. They aim to provide speedy justice and improve the judicial system. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has 358 sections, adding 20 new crimes and increasing penalties for several others. It also introduces a chapter on ‘Crimes against Women and Children’ and defines terrorism as a punishable offense.
The Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita has 531 sections, with 177 changes and new provisions to ensure faster justice. The Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam has 170 provisions, with changes to improve the evidence system.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the need for these changes to deliver speedy justice. However, some experts and opposition leaders have raised concerns about the lack of consultation and potential misuse of the new laws.
The Delhi Police has already started training its officers to adapt to these new laws, ensuring they are well-prepared for the changes.
