India is set to usher in a new era of legal reforms with the implementation of three groundbreaking criminal laws from July 1. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023 promise to revolutionize how justice is accessed and delivered across the country, according to official sources.

These laws, enacted to replace the outdated British-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act, introduce several key provisions aimed at enhancing efficiency, transparency, and accessibility within the justice system.

Key Highlights of the New Laws:

Zero FIR and Online Complaints: Individuals can now file a First Information Report (FIR) electronically, eliminating the need to visit a police station. This facilitates quicker reporting and ensures prompt police action.

Rights of Arrested Individuals: Arrested persons have the right to inform a chosen person about their situation, ensuring immediate support and assistance. Details of arrests will be prominently displayed in police stations for easy access by families and friends.

Mandatory Videography of Crime Scenes: Forensic experts must visit and videograph crime scenes for serious offences to prevent evidence tampering, enhancing the reliability of investigations.

Timely Justice for Women and Children: Offences against women and children will receive prioritized investigations, with completion mandated within two months of reporting. Victims are entitled to regular case updates within 90 days, ensuring transparency and involvement in legal proceedings.

Medical Assistance and Protection: Victims of crimes against women and children will receive free first-aid or medical treatment at all hospitals, prioritizing their well-being during recovery.

Electronic Summons and Witness Protection: Summons can now be served electronically, reducing paperwork and expediting legal processes. Witness protection schemes will be implemented nationwide to ensure their safety and cooperation.

Inclusivity and Gender Sensitivity: The definition of "gender" now includes transgender individuals, promoting inclusivity. Statements of victims of rape will be recorded through audio-video means by police, ensuring sensitivity and transparency.

Community Service and Simplified Legal Processes: Minor offences may involve community service, fostering personal growth and social responsibility. Legal procedures have been simplified for better understanding and accessibility.

Odisha Police Gears Up for Implementation of New Criminal Laws

Odisha Police is gearing up to implement three new criminal laws effective July 1, as confirmed by a senior police officer on Wednesday.

Arun Sarangi, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Odisha, stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued notifications, and preparations are in full swing. Sarangi informed PTI that over 85% of police personnel have undergone specialized training to ensure smooth enforcement of the new laws. The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) are also being upgraded to support these legislative changes.

Field-level officers are being briefed through various Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and circulars to acquaint them with the nuances of the new legal framework. In parallel, judicial officers and public prosecutors are receiving tailored training to handle cases under the new provisions effectively.

To ensure public awareness and understanding, comprehensive public awareness campaigns are being planned across the state. These campaigns aim to educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities under the new laws, fostering a better understanding of the changes in legal procedures.

These comprehensive reforms aim to streamline legal proceedings, protect vulnerable populations, and uphold fairness in the administration of justice. By modernizing and digitizing legal processes, the new laws promise a faster, fairer resolution of cases, bolstering public trust in India's legal system.

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