Starting July 1, India will see the implementation of three new criminal laws aimed at modernizing the justice system. These laws will introduce Zero First Information Report (Zero FIR), online police complaint registration, electronic summons, and mandatory videography of crime scenes for serious crimes. These changes are part of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, replacing the old British-era laws.
Easier and Faster Reporting
With the new laws, anyone can report crimes online, without needing to go to a police station. This makes it easier and quicker to report crimes and get police help. The Zero FIR allows filing an FIR at any police station, no matter where the crime happened. This ensures faster legal action and immediate crime reporting. Victims will also get a free copy of the FIR, ensuring they are part of the legal process.
Rights of the Arrested
Arrested individuals can now inform someone of their choice about their situation, ensuring they get immediate support. Details of arrests will be displayed in police stations and district headquarters, making it easy for families and friends to find information.
Better Investigations
For serious crimes, forensic experts must visit the crime scene and collect evidence. The evidence collection will be videographed to prevent tampering. This will improve the quality of investigations and ensure justice.
Special Focus on Women and Children
The new laws prioritize cases involving women and children, requiring investigations to be completed within two months. Victims will get regular updates on their cases within 90 days. They are also guaranteed free first-aid or medical treatment at all hospitals, ensuring they get immediate care.
Electronic Summons and Gender Sensitivity
Summons will be sent electronically, speeding up legal processes and reducing paperwork. In cases involving women, statements will be recorded by a female magistrate or, if not possible, by a male magistrate in the presence of a woman. Both the accused and the victim will receive copies of all important documents within 14 days. Courts will limit adjournments to two to avoid delays.
Witness Protection and Inclusivity
The state governments must implement a witness protection scheme to ensure the safety of witnesses. The definition of “gender” now includes transgender individuals, promoting equality.
Convenient Legal Proceedings
Legal processes will be conducted electronically, making it easier for victims, witnesses, and the accused. For rape cases, victims’ statements will be recorded via audio-video to ensure transparency. Women, individuals under 15, over 60, or those with disabilities or illness are exempt from going to police stations and can get police help at home.
Community Service and Fair Punishments
The laws introduce community service for minor offenses, helping offenders contribute positively to society. Fines for crimes are now matched to the severity of the offenses, ensuring fair punishment and deterring future crimes. The legal processes have been simplified, making them easier to understand and follow.
Conclusion
These new laws, passed by Parliament in its winter session of 2023, promise quicker and fairer resolutions of cases, boosting confidence in the legal system. As these laws take effect on July 1, they aim to empower Indian citizens and create a more accessible, supportive, and efficient justice system.