New Criminal Laws Aim to Improve Transparency and Justice, Police Say

A day after the three new criminal laws were implemented, police stations saw officers discussing the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) provisions. Case registrations continued smoothly, according to officials. Some complainants were confused about the new laws but were reassured that these changes aim to provide speedy justice.

According to an inspector, new provisions like those for snatching have been added, enhancing investigation capabilities and ensuring justice for victims. "The provision of snatching which has been included in the new laws was needed. The punishment for snatching is for three years, which could have been increased. We have already started registering cases under the new laws from Monday," the officer stated.

Focus on Digital Evidence

A senior officer highlighted that the BNS emphasises digital evidence, crucial for investigations. "We got training for the last several months regarding the BNS and started registering FIRs under the three new laws from Monday. The seniors were very cooperative and they helped everyone during the classes of the new laws," he said.

He added that digital evidence would bring more transparency to cases, preventing manipulation. "After the results of general elections on June 4, we asked all the IOs to gear up for the new laws. The new laws have focused more on digital evidences, which is a good thing. Due to this, the cases will have more transparency and they will not be manipulated by anyone," he mentioned.

Changes in Punishments and Sections

A sub-inspector noted that BNS is more convenient as some sections have been removed and punishments increased. "New sections have been added which were not there in the Indian Penal Code (IPC)," he added.

The Delhi Police registered its first FIR under BNS against a street vendor obstructing a public way in Kamala Market on Monday. Over 25 FIRs were filed under various sections of the new criminal code that day.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed a press conference where he mentioned that Delhi Police dismissed a case against a street vendor after an investigation. "By using the provisions of review, the police have dismissed this case," he said.

The BNS and two other new criminal laws came into effect on Monday, bringing significant changes to India's criminal justice system.