Three new criminal laws — Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) — has come into effect across northeastern states, replacing outdated British-era laws.
This move aligns with nationwide efforts to modernise and expedite justice delivery.
Enacted last year, these laws supersede the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act, respectively, marking a significant shift in the region's legal framework.
Preparations included training over 15,000 police personnel, judicial officials, and staff across seven states. Additional sessions are planned to ensure security officers are well-prepared for implementation.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma hailed the enactment as a “watershed moment” for India’s criminal justice system, emphasizing their citizen-centric approach and the state’s readiness for effective enforcement.
“These laws prioritize the safety of women, children, and the underprivileged,” Sarma affirmed on social media.
In Manipur, Chief Minister Biren Singh outlined key provisions at Imphal’s Palace Auditorium, highlighting benefits like limiting court case adjournments, zero-FIR filing at any police station, and FIRs in local dialects.
Singh stressed the crucial role of security personnel and lawyers in earnestly implementing the laws for optimal results.
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu lauded the legislation’s potential to modernize India’s criminal justice system, emphasising swift investigations, simplified FIR registration, and enhanced sensitivity to crimes against women.
“Thanks to PM Narendra Modi and HM Amit Shah for this transformation,” Khandu shared.
Mizoram’s Home Minister K. Sapdanga commended the laws’ transformative impact at a ceremony in Serchhip District, emphasising their alignment with contemporary technological and societal dynamics.
“These laws herald a new legal era,” Sapdanga underscored, noting the need for updated statutes to bolster crime prevention and justice delivery.
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