MCQs on the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023,

MCQs on Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023

1. What is the primary objective of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023?

A) To promote economic growth
B) To enhance security and safety of individuals
C) To improve education
D) To develop infrastructure

✅ Answer: B) To enhance security and safety of individuals

Explanation: BNSS, 2023 aims to modernize the criminal justice system by ensuring timely justice, enhancing security, and protecting citizens' rights. It prioritizes victim-centric approaches, use of technology, and streamlined legal procedures.

2. Which law did BNSS, 2023 replace?

A) Indian Penal Code, 1860
B) Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973
C) Indian Evidence Act, 1872
D) Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988

✅ Answer: B) Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973

Explanation: BNSS replaces the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973, to reform the legal system, introduce modern forensic practices, and expedite justice delivery.

3. What is a ‘Zero FIR’ under BNSS, 2023?

A) FIR that leads to no investigation
B) FIR that can be filed at any police station, irrespective of jurisdiction
C) FIR that is registered but not valid
D) FIR for minor offenses only

✅ Answer: B) FIR that can be filed at any police station, irrespective of jurisdiction

Explanation: A Zero FIR allows a victim to register a case at any police station, which will then be transferred to the relevant jurisdiction. This ensures prompt action in cases of serious crimes.

4. What is the time limit for the police to complete an investigation in cases involving crimes against women under BNSS?

A) 30 days
B) 45 days
C) 60 days
D) 90 days

✅ Answer: C) 60 days

Explanation: BNSS mandates that investigations in cases of crimes against women, including those under POCSO Act (2012), must be completed within 60 days to ensure speedy justice.

5. What is the maximum period for which an accused can be held in police custody without a Magistrate’s order?

A) 24 hours
B) 48 hours
C) 72 hours
D) 7 days

✅ Answer: A) 24 hours

Explanation: As per BNSS, an accused must be presented before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest to prevent unlawful detention.

6. What does BNSS say about forensic investigations for serious crimes?

A) Not required
B) Only for cases involving government officials
C) Mandatory for offenses punishable by at least 7 years imprisonment
D) Optional, based on police discretion

✅ Answer: C) Mandatory for offenses punishable by at least 7 years imprisonment

Explanation: BNSS mandates forensic investigation in serious crimes (punishable by 7 years or more) to improve evidence collection and ensure accurate justice delivery.

7. Which of the following offenses require forensic evidence collection under BNSS?

A) Petty theft
B) Public nuisance cases
C) Rape and murder
D) Traffic violations

✅ Answer: C) Rape and murder

Explanation: BNSS makes forensic investigation compulsory in serious crimes like rape, murder, and terrorism to ensure strong evidentiary support in legal proceedings.

8. Which body is responsible for implementing BNSS, 2023?

A) Ministry of Defence
B) Ministry of Education
C) Ministry of Law and Justice
D) Ministry of Home Affairs

✅ Answer: C) Ministry of Law and Justice

Explanation: BNSS is implemented and governed by the Ministry of Law and Justice, which oversees legal reforms and criminal procedures in India.

9. What are the two categories of offenses under BNSS?

A) Cognizable and Non-Cognizable
B) Civil and Criminal
C) Economic and Non-Economic
D) Public and Private

✅ Answer: A) Cognizable and Non-Cognizable

Explanation: BNSS categorizes offenses into Cognizable (serious, allowing immediate police action) and Non-Cognizable (requiring court permission for police intervention).

10. Under BNSS, how are legal proceedings conducted?

A) Entirely offline
B) Entirely in paper format
C) Allowed to be conducted electronically
D) Only through verbal communication

✅ Answer: C) Allowed to be conducted electronically

Explanation: BNSS enables electronic filing of complaints, digital evidence collection, and video conferencing for trials to modernize legal procedures.

11. Which right has been strengthened for victims under BNSS?

A) Right to refuse evidence
B) Right to participate in criminal proceedings
C) Right to avoid testifying
D) Right to change laws

✅ Answer: B) Right to participate in criminal proceedings

Explanation: BNSS ensures that victims are informed of case progress, have expanded rights to information, and are actively included in legal processes.

12. Which of the following is a key feature of BNSS?

A) Extending trial durations
B) Reducing the use of technology in trials
C) Strengthening victim protection
D) Eliminating witness protection schemes

✅ Answer: C) Strengthening victim protection

Explanation: BNSS introduces strong victim protection measures such as one-stop crisis centers, protection officers, and witness safety programs.

13. What provision does BNSS include for witness safety?

A) No protection for witnesses
B) Protection only for government officials
C) Witness Protection Scheme
D) Only anonymity for witnesses

✅ Answer: C) Witness Protection Scheme

Explanation: BNSS mandates the Witness Protection Scheme to safeguard individuals providing testimony, preventing intimidation and harm.

14. Under BNSS, how can an FIR be filed?

A) Only in person at a police station
B) Only through a written application
C) Through electronic submission
D) Only in court

✅ Answer: C) Through electronic submission

Explanation: BNSS allows electronic FIR filing, making legal procedures more accessible and efficient.

15. What is the role of designated police officers under BNSS?

A) Collect taxes
B) Keep records of arrested persons
C) Approve new laws
D) Act as judges

✅ Answer: B) Keep records of arrested persons

Explanation: Assistant Sub-Inspectors or higher-ranking officers must maintain records of arrested individuals and display them digitally at police stations.