Srinagar, July 01: In a landmark event for India’s criminal justice system, three new laws came into force today. Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha presided over the implementation ceremony at Police Headquarters in Srinagar, marking the commencement of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. Hon’ble Chief Justice of the J&K and Ladakh High Court, Sh. Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, also attended the ceremony.
Lt Governor Sinha expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Home Minister Shri Amit Shah for initiating these significant reforms. He highlighted that these new laws break away from the colonial legacies and are designed to ensure justice and equality for all.
Key Reforms:
1.Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita** replaces the Indian Penal Code of 1860. It focuses on restorative justice and victim rights, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.
2.Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita replaces the Criminal Procedure Code of 1973. This law aims to expedite justice delivery, protect the rights of the accused, and ensure public safety.
3.Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam replaces the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. It incorporates modern technology for evidence collection and forensic advancements to ensure the credibility of the judicial process.
Lt Governor Sinha noted that these laws reflect a shift towards a humane and just system, designed to protect victim rights, ensure justice, and uphold human dignity. They aim to address contemporary issues like terrorism, sedition, and mob lynching while incorporating technological advancements to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the justice system.
During his address, Lt Governor Sinha emphasized the need for vigilance against the potential misuse of technology and the importance of investments in infrastructure and training to support these reforms. He called for collective efforts to realize the full potential of the new laws and ensure efficient and equitable justice.
Chief Justice Sh. Justice N. Kotiswar Singh described the new laws as a reflection of a resurgent and confident India, urging universities to conduct awareness sessions on these reforms. The event also saw participation from social workers, legal practitioners, and police officials who shared their views on the impact of the new laws.
Senior officials from the Civil and Police Administration attended the ceremony both in person and through virtual mode.
Historic Day for Indian Criminal Justice: Lt Governor addresses Implementation ceremony of New Laws in Srinagar
