New Criminal Laws in India: Essential FAQs Explained [2024 Update]

1. What are the new criminal laws that came into effect on July 1, 2024?

Answer: The three new criminal laws are the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023. These laws replace the British-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act.

2. What are some key highlights of the new criminal laws?

Answer: Key highlights include:

• Summons through electronic modes
• Mandatory videography of crime scenes
• Online registration of police complaints
• Introduction of zero FIR, allowing FIRs to be registered at any police station regardless of jurisdiction.

3. How do the new laws ensure the involvement of victims in legal proceedings?

Answer: Under the new legislation, victims will receive a complimentary copy of the FIR, ensuring their involvement and keeping them informed about the progress of their case.

4. What rights do arrested individuals have under the new laws?

Answer: If someone is arrested, they have the right to notify a person of their choosing about their circumstances, ensuring they receive prompt support and help.

5. How are arrest details communicated to the public under the new laws?

Answer: Arrest details will be prominently displayed in police stations and district headquarters, making it easier for families and friends of the arrested individual to access crucial information.

6. What changes have been made to the process of evidence collection at crime scenes?

Answer: Forensic experts must now visit crime scenes for serious offences to gather evidence. Additionally, the evidence collection process at the crime scene must be videographed to prevent tampering.

7. How do the new laws prioritize investigations of offences against women and children?

Answer: Investigations of offences against women and children must be completed within two months of the initial report. Victims are also entitled to regular updates on their case's progress every 90 days.

8. What provisions are there for the medical treatment of victims of crimes against women and children?

Answer: The new laws ensure that victims of crimes against women and children receive free first-aid or medical treatment at all hospitals, guaranteeing immediate access to essential medical care.

9. How has the delivery of summons been improved under the new laws?

Answer: Summons can now be delivered electronically, speeding up legal procedures, reducing paperwork, and ensuring effective communication among all parties involved.

10. What is the protocol for recording statements of victims in cases of specific offences against women?

Answer: Ideally, a female magistrate should record the victim's statements. If a female magistrate is unavailable, a male magistrate must do so in the presence of a woman, ensuring sensitivity and fairness in the process.

11. What are the new provisions for sharing legal documents with the accused and the victim?

Answer: Both the accused and the victim have the right to receive copies of the FIR, police report, chargesheet, statements, confessions, and other documents within 14 days. Courts will allow a maximum of two adjournments to prevent unnecessary delays in hearings and ensure timely justice.