Chhattisgarh's New Criminal Laws Aim for Timely Justice and Modernization
Introduction to New Criminal Laws
On August 2, during a workshop organized by the state's Home Department, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai emphasized that the newly introduced criminal laws are designed not only to punish offenders but also to create a citizen-centric system that ensures timely justice for victims and prevents criminals from evading the law.
Modernization of Criminal Justice System
Sai highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, the Indian Justice Code, the Indian Citizen Security Code, and the Indian Evidence Act will come into effect from July 1, 2024. These laws aim to modernize India's criminal justice system by replacing colonial-era regulations. He stated that these new laws are crafted to address contemporary needs and emerging challenges.
Technological Integration in Justice Delivery
The Chief Minister pointed out that the new legal framework recognizes digital evidence, CCTV footage, mobile chats, electronic records, and scientific forensic investigations, thereby strengthening the processes of crime investigation and prosecution. He mentioned that the establishment of the National Forensic Science University in Chhattisgarh will further enhance criminal investigations and judicial processes.
Efficiency in Judicial Processes
Sai noted that the use of digital technology has made the justice delivery process significantly faster and more effective than before. He explained that previously, serving summons could take several days, but now, with the e-summons system, they can be dispatched instantly and monitored digitally.
National Video Conferencing Platform
The 'Nyaya Shruti' national video conferencing platform facilitates secure digital recording of court proceedings and offers options for online and hybrid hearings. Referring to the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS), Sai mentioned that police stations across the country are digitally interconnected, allowing for immediate access to criminal records and swift police action.
Online Operations of Police Stations
He revealed that all police stations in Chhattisgarh are now operating online, with a total of 197,547 First Information Reports (FIRs) registered digitally, although he did not specify the time frame for this data. The Interoperable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) has established secure digital coordination among the judiciary, police, prosecution, prison departments, and other agencies, significantly reducing delays in judicial processes due to rapid information exchange.
Judicial Leadership's Support
During the event, Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh High Court Ramesh Sinha stated that the effective implementation of the three new criminal laws will make the state's criminal justice system more transparent, scientific, technology-driven, and efficient. He reported that in June, approximately 9,910 cases were heard via video conferencing in district courts, along with 58 cases in the High Court, urging all stakeholders to utilize the 'Nyaya Shruti' platform extensively.
Significance of the Workshop
Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma remarked that this workshop would mark a significant milestone in the history of the justice system.