Press Information Bureau, Mumbai organised ‘Vartalaap’- a discussion on the three criminal laws, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bhartiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 in Mumbai today.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Director, of Maharashtra Police Academy Dr. Kakasaheb Dole said that the new laws that came into force on 1 July are intended to overhaul the Indian legal system and establish a justice system based on Indian thinking. Dr. Kakasaheb Dole added that the laws have been made in the spirit of the Indian Constitution.
Speaking about the citizen-centric, technology-driven changes in the system, Dr. Kakasaheb Dole said the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita gives citizens the right to file an FIR through oral or by electronic communication (e-FIR) also, irrespective of the area where the offence is committed citizen can file FIR. He said that now citizens can appear as an accused, victim or witness through audio-video conferencing for the purposes of examination.
He further said forensics have been made mandatory in cases with a penalty of 7 years or more, videography has to be done during the entire police search process. He added that rape victims can now record e-statement online and they need not visit police stations.
Addressing media persons at the Vartalaap, Adv. Abhineet Pange of Bombay High Court said that community service for petty crimes is an important aspect of the new laws, as youngsters at times may get influenced due to their age.
