Jammu Division Witnesses First FIRs Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered FIRs in five districts of the Jammu division under the new criminal law, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which came into effect nationwide on Monday, officials reported. Jammu Zone Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Anand Jain described the registration of the first FIRs under BNS as a historic moment for the region.

In a significant development, the first FIRs under BNS were successfully registered at Model Police Stations in Doda, Reasi, Udhampur, Ramban, and Jammu districts within the Jammu division, according to a police spokesman. The first FIR, numbered 170/2024, was filed at the police station in Doda. This accident case was registered under sections 281 (exhibiting fake mark) and 125 (wrongful confinement) of BNS, marking a notable milestone in the region's legal enforcement framework.

First FIRs Under New Law

An FIR was also filed at Police Station Pouni in Reasi district for an accident case under sections 281 and 125a of BNS, 2023. An investigation has been initiated. Similarly, a case of assault was registered under section 115 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt) and 125 of BNS at Police Station Udhampur. This marked the first FIR registered in Udhampur under the new criminal law.

Moreover, Bishnah Police Station in Jammu district has registered its first FIR under BNS. This case involved sections 109 (organized crime) and 115 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt) of BNS and section 4/25 A Act. This registration signifies a significant evolution in the region's legal framework.

Implementation Across Districts

The first FIR under sections 125a and 281 of BNS was also registered at Police Station Banihal in Ramban district. From now on, all FIRs will be filed under the provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023. However, cases registered before July 1 will continue to be tried under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act until their final disposal.

Jain stated, "These new laws will ensure justice and equality for all, moving away from the repressive colonial framework." He added that this development would contribute to making society more peaceful and crime-free while enhancing police accountability, transparency, responsibility, and trustworthiness.

Commitment to Justice

The Model Police Stations in Doda and Reasi have taken significant steps in implementing these three Sanhitas in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. ADGP Jain expressed confidence in working together towards a safer and more just society.

The registration of this first FIR under the new BNS sections marks the dawn of a new era in legal enforcement in Jammu & Kashmir. It sets a precedent for future cases and reinforces the commitment of J&K Police to serve and protect the community with integrity and professionalism.