Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 is one among the three criminal laws which has been passed by the Parliament. It has been passed by both the houses and has come into force on 1 July, 2024. The Bhartiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 is going to replace the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1898. The CrPC provides for the procedure for arrest, prosecution, and bail.

KEY PROVISIONS

  • The BNSS mandates forensic investigation for offences punishable with seven years of imprisonment or more. Forensic experts will visit crime scenes to collect forensic evidence and record the process.
  • All trials, inquiries, and proceedings may be held in electronic mode. Production of electronic communication devices, likely to contain digital Evidence, will be allowed for investigation, inquiry, or trial.
  • If a proclaimed offender has absconded to evade trial and there is no Immediate prospect of arresting him, the trial can be conducted and Judgement pronounced in his absence.
  • Along with specimen signatures or handwriting, finger impressions and voice Samples may be collected for investigation or proceedings. Samples may be taken from a person who has not been arrested.

CRITICISMS

  • The BNSS allows up to 15 days of police custody, which can be authorised In parts during the initial 40 or 60 days of the 60 or 90 days period of Judicial custody. This may lead to denial of bail for the entire period if the police has not exhausted the 15 days custody.
  • The power to attach property from proceeds of crime does not have safeguards rovided in the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
  • The CrPC provides for bail for an accused who has been detained for half The maximum imprisonment for the offence. The BNSS denies this facility for anyone facing multiple charges. As many cases involve charges under multiple sections, this may limit such bail.
  • The use of handcuffs is permitted in a range of cases including organised Crime, contradicting Supreme Court directions.