To crack down on crime, three new criminal laws will come into force from today. The new laws provide for strictness and harsh punishment for different types of crimes. Union Home Ministry issued a notification for this. On 25 December 2023, it was approved by the President of India.
About The First Three Laws:-
- What is in the Indian Judicial Code?
BNS Will replace 163 years old the Indian Penal Code (IPC). It will have 358 sections instead of 511. 21 new crimes have been added to it. The punishment period has been increased in 41 crimes. The fine amount has increased in 82 crimes. Mandatory minimum punishment has been introduced for 25 crimes. There are provisions for community service as punishment in six crimes and 19 sections have been repealed. - What is the Indian Civil Defense Code (BNSS)?
The BNSS will replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (CRPC) 1973. In this, the power of the magistrate to impose fines has increased. The process of confiscation and confiscation of proceeds of crime is covered. There will be preliminary investigations in crimes punishable with less than three to seven years. Serious crimes will be investigated by DSP-level officers. - Who will be replaced by the Indian Evidence Bill (BSA)?
It has been brought in place of the Indian Evidence Act 1872. Two new sections and six sub-sections have been added to it. Earlier there were 167 sections, now there are 170. Amendments have taken place in 24 sections. Six have been cancelled. A statement obtained electronically is included in the definition of evidence. Electronic and digital records will have legal recognition as evidence.
This is also special in BNSS
■ Time limits have been added to 35 sections in the new law. This is expected to speed up justice.
■ Police will inform victims and informants about the status of investigation within 90 days.
■ The magistrate must frame charges within 60 days of the first hearing on the charge.
■ After the conclusion of any criminal case, the verdict will be announced within 45 days.
■ The Sessions Court will decide on acquittal or conviction within 30 days.
■ The Sessions Court can extend it for 45 days on the basis of valid legal reasons.
● What is the provision of punishment for raping a minor?
Rape of minor girls has been made compatible with POCSO. There is Provision for life imprisonment or death penalty. In case of gang rape, there is a provision of 20 years of imprisonment or life imprisonment.
● When will the medical examination report be received in case of sexual harassment?
In case of sexual assault, the medical officer shall provide the medical examination report of the victim to the officer investigating the case within seven days.
● What is new in the law regarding crimes against woman?
According to new law, if a crime is committed against a woman, she will get free first aid or treatment facility in any hospital.
● What are the provisions regarding the victimized woman?
In certain types of crimes, the female victim can record her statement before a female magistrate. In the absence of a female magistrate, a male magistrate can record her statement, but during this, the presence of a woman will be mandatory.
● Will police help to reach home?
Women and persons below 15 years of age, persons above 60 years of age, suffering from serious illness or disabled persons will be exempted from going to the police station. He will get police help at home only.
● What will be the punishment in hit and run case?
There is a provision of ten years’ imprisonment for those who run away after causing a road accident. If the person causing the accident takes the injured to the hospital, his punishment may be reduced.
● what about terrorism in new law?
Strict action has been taken against terrorism in BNS. Provision for death penalty and life imprisonment for harming the unity of the country. There will be no parole in this.
● What kind of punishment is there in mob lynching?
Mob lynching is a heinous crime. If convicted in mob violence, the accused can face death penalty.
● Will everyone be handcuffed?
Right to handcuff rape and murder accused. The police can use handcuffs from arrest to court appearance. Economic criminals will be saved from this.
● What does zero FIR mean?
Now the victim can go to any police station and lodge zero FIR. The complaint will have to be transferred to the concerned police station within 24 hours.
● When will the person related to the case get the copy of the FIR?
Under the new law, the accused and the victim will get the FIR, report, charge sheet, statement, confession and other documents within 14 days.
● When will we get the answer to e-FIR?
A woman can file an e-FIR. Immediate cognizance will be taken of this and there is a provision to reply within two days.
● How were the rules related to summons changed?
Under the new law, summons can now also be sent through electronic means. With this, all the parties involved in the case will get information about the case simultaneously.
● Is the limit of detention period 15 days or has it increased?
The period of detention under BNSS can range from 15 days to 60 or 90 days.
● How long can a person take to be released from custody?
Police cannot misuse their power over a person in custody. Will have to be presented before the magistrate. In minor cases release is possible within 24 hours.
● What are the provisions for police in the new law?
There will be a designated police officer in the police station to prepare the list of the arrested people and inform their relatives. The person himself will decide to whom he wants to inform about the arrest first.
