New Criminal Laws (BNS, BNSS, BSA)
Implementation of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) replacing colonial-era IPC, CrPC, and IEA to decolonize and modernize India's criminal justice system.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Replaces IPC 1860. Key changes include defining terrorism and organized crime, introducing community service as a penalty, and removing sedition (replaced with treason). mob lynching made a distinct offense.
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
Replaces CrPC 1973. Mandates forensic investigation for crimes punishable by 7+ years. Encourages Zero FIR, e-FIR, and timelines for judgments (30-45 days after hearing conclusion). Mercy petition controls.
Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)
Replaces Evidence Act 1872. Recognizes electronic and digital records as primary evidence. Expands scope of secondary evidence. Faciliates remote testimony via video conferencing.
Technological Integration
Mandatory videography of search and seizures. Implementation of e-Prisons, e-Forensics, NAFIS (fingerprint system), and CCTNS to create an interoperable 'smart' justice grid.
Objectives & Impact
Shift from 'punishment' to 'justice'. Decolonization of legal language. Reduced pendency through fixed timelines. Victim-centric approach with witness protection schemes.