India’s criminal justice system is set to experience a complete overhaul today as three new criminal codes replace the British-era laws, including the Indian Penal Code. This significant reform introduces the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, which will take over from the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act.
The government has stated that these changes aim to ensure speedier justice and adapt to contemporary forms of crime. Under the new laws, judgments must be delivered within 45 days of the trial’s completion, and charges must be framed within 60 days of the first hearing.
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Additionally, any person can now file a Zero FIR at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction, and police complaints can be registered online. Summonses can also be served electronically, expediting legal processes.
The reforms mandate the videography of crime scenes for all heinous crimes and require the involvement of forensic teams for offences carrying a sentence of seven years or more.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the new laws aim to ensure “speedy justice and justice to all.” He noted that proper implementation would necessitate training and forensic expertise, with the National Forensic Science University (NFSU) playing a crucial role.
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In response to emerging crimes such as gang rapes, mob killings, and false promises of marriage, new provisions have been introduced. The demand for forensic experts is expected to rise across the country, with the NFSU prepared to meet this need. The university has already established campuses in nine states, with plans to expand to sixteen.
However, the decision to implement these new laws from July 1 has faced criticism from Opposition parties, including the Congress, which argue that more consultation was needed before enforcement. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to defer the implementation, calling for Parliament to review the laws afresh.
Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has highlighted the significance of these reforms, stating, “These laws signify a watershed moment for our society because no law affects the day-to-day conduct of our society like the criminal law.”
