New Indian Penal and Civil Protection Codes Replace British-Era Laws

Three laws brought by the Center to replace the British era laws will come into force from today. The Indian Penal Code (IPC), and the Criminal Procedure Code (CRPC) were replaced by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyamwas replaced by the Indian Civil Protection Code and the Indian Evidence Act (IEA) was replaced by the Indian Evidence Act. The first case in the country under the Indian Justice Code was registered against a street vendor in Delhi. But let’s find out what has changed with these three new laws.

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1. There is a provision in these laws that a verdict should be issued within 45 days of the completion of the investigation. Apart from this, charges should be framed within 60 days from the first hearing.
2. According to the new laws, any person can register zero FIR at any police station in the country. It helps in filing complaints online. Summons can also be sent through electronic means.
3. Crime scene, videography is mandatory in all serious criminal cases. The online summons will be sent to expedite the process. Proceedings in the courts are conducted only according to schedule.
4. In case the victim needs to register an FIR, he can do so without going to the police station. This will give the police time to register cases immediately and take timely action.
5. The complainant will also get a copy of the FIR immediately.
6. Under the new laws, victims of crimes against women and children will get free treatment in hospitals.
7. These rules also focus on the safety of witnesses. All state governments operate on witness protection schemes. This will increase the confidence of the people in the judicial process and they will not hesitate to give evidence even in important cases.
8. In sensitive cases like rape, the victim’s statement is audio-video recorded by the police.
9. As per the new rules, children below 15 years and above 60 years need not go to the police station.
10. Apart from these, persons with disabilities and seriously ill persons are also not required to appear at the police station.