Starting July 1, the colonial laws of the British Raj will be replaced by three new laws: the Indian Justice Code-2023, the Indian Security Code-2023, and the Indian Evidence Act-2023. These laws aim to establish a more accessible, helpful, and effective justice system for all. They replace the British-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act, respectively.
To prepare for the implementation, 4 million people have been trained at a basic level, including 565,000 police personnel and jail officers. These individuals are also trained to educate the public about the new laws.
Key features of the new laws include:
– Zero FIR: Victims can file an FIR at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction, and will receive a free copy of the FIR.
– Online Complaints: Incidents can be reported electronically without needing to visit a police station, facilitating quicker police response.
– Electronic Summons: Summons can be sent via electronic means.
– Videography of Crime Scenes: Mandatory for serious crimes, ensuring thorough evidence collection by forensic experts.
– Timely Investigations: Agencies must complete investigations within two months for crimes against women and children, with regular updates to victims within 90 days.
– Free Medical Aid: Crime victims, especially women and children, are guaranteed free first aid or treatment in all hospitals.
– Witness Protection: State governments will implement programs to protect and support witnesses.
– Victim Statements: Rape victims can record their statements via audio-video mediums.
– Community Service: Introduced as punishment for minor crimes, encouraging positive societal contributions from the accused.
– Limited Postponements: Courts can only postpone a case twice to avoid delays and expedite justice.
– Electronic Legal Proceedings: All legal processes will be conducted electronically.
– Special Considerations for Vulnerable Groups: Women, minors, seniors, and those with disabilities or serious illnesses are exempt from visiting police stations and can receive assistance at their residence.
– Rights of the Arrested: Arrested individuals can inform someone of their choice about their situation, ensuring immediate assistance.
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The new laws were discussed and passed in Parliament during the winter session last year, with 37 Lok Sabha and 40 Rajya Sabha members participating. Experts in criminal law are now preparing for the transition, as all processes from FIR to court decisions will be conducted online.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has emphasized that the purpose of these laws is not punishment, but justice. He stated that the new laws would end the era of prolonged trials, ensuring justice within three years.
