Three New Criminal Laws to Take Effect in State from July 1

Agartala, Jun 29, 2024, By Our Correspondent

Agartala: June 29: The state government is set to implement three significant criminal laws, aligning with the nationwide changes. The new legislations—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita-2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita-2023, and Bharatiya Sakkhya Adhiniyam-2023—aim to reform the criminal justice system, expedite trials, and enhance victim safety. Home Secretary P.K. Chakraborty made this announcement during a press conference at the Secretariat.

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita-2023 replaces the Indian Penal Code-1860, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita-2023 supersedes the Criminal Procedure Code-1973, and the Bharatiya Sakkhya Adhiniyam-2023 replaces the Indian Evidence Act-1872. Under Section 173 of the new law, citizens can file an FIR from any location outside the designated police station area. This provision, known as “Zero FIR,” ensures prompt action. The new legislation also allows citizens to file electronic FIRs (e-FIRs), streamlining the reporting process.

For minor offenses, especially involving physically challenged or elderly citizens, the law provides relief from immediate arrest. The aggrieved complainant must be informed of the investigation’s progress within 90 days of case registration. Section 65(2) of the BNS introduces the death penalty for those convicted of raping girls under 12 years old. The new criminal law emphasizes witness protection and includes specific provisions. Over 3,110 personnel from various departments, including police, jail police, law, health, and family welfare, have received training in skill development and technology application. Additionally, 282 police personnel are now proficient in operating the revised CCTNS application.

Infrastructural development, recruitment, and rule formulation will be implemented gradually in accordance with government guidelines. District police superintendents continue extensive awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the new laws. The Sankalan mobile app, available on Google Playstore, provides further information on the three new laws.

Home Secretary P.K. Chakraborty, Law Secretary Sanjay Bhattacharya, and IG L. Darlong were present during the press conference.