India’s New Era of Criminal Laws Begins: First FIR Registered in Delhi

Today, July 1st, marks a significant milestone for the Indian Judicial System as three new criminal laws come into effect starting today.

Three New Criminal Laws

From today onwards, the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act, which have been in place since the British era, will be replaced by three new laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam.

President Droupadi Murmu emphasized that the three new criminal laws prioritize justice over punishment, contrasting with the punitive mindset of the British era. Speaking at the first joint sitting of Parliament since the formation of the 18th Lok Sabha, she highlighted that the new laws are reforms aimed at expediting the judicial process.

Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, views the new criminal justice legislation as a pivotal moment for Indian society, foreseeing a significant restructuring of the nation’s legal system. According to him, these laws promise to enhance efficiency and effectiveness across every stage of criminal law, from the registration of FIRs to the delivery of final judgments, through comprehensive digitalization mandated by the upcoming legislation.

First FIR Registered As Per The New Laws

With the commencement of a new era in the Indian Judicial system, the practical application of these laws began with the registration of the first FIR under Section 285 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, on July 1st at Kamla Market Police Station in Delhi. The case involves a street vendor accused of obstructing a foot overbridge at New Delhi Railway Station while conducting sales.

Special CP, Training, Chhaya Sharma, noted that FIRs are now being registered under the new sections as the laws have taken effect. She highlighted a key aspect of the new legislation: a strong emphasis on digital evidence and the pivotal role of forensic experts in the judicial process.

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