Exploring the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill

What is the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill?

The Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill is a legislative proposal presented in the Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on August 11. Its primary aim is to create a tech-friendly legal framework that enhances the criminal justice system through the integration of technology in areas such as investigation, trial, court proceedings, and other related processes.

What does the bill seek to replace?

This bill proposes to repeal the existing Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973. While it retains many provisions regarding the procedures for arrest, prosecution, and bail concerning various Acts, including the Indian Penal Code of 1860, it also introduces several notable changes and innovations.

Key Changes Proposed by the Bill

The Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill puts forward several key changes:

• Trials in Electronic Mode: The bill allows trials, inquiries, and proceedings to be conducted electronically, utilizing audio and video technology, thus incorporating modern communication methods into the legal process.
• Use of Technology and Forensic Sciences: It emphasizes the application of technology and forensic sciences in criminal investigations, facilitating electronic communication for the lodging of information and service of summons.
• Time-Bound Processes: The bill establishes firm timelines for investigations, trials, and judgments, aiming to expedite the legal process significantly.
• Video Conferencing: The accused may be examined through electronic means, such as video conferencing, reducing the necessity for physical appearances in court.
• Definition of Electronic Communication: The bill defines “electronic communication” as the exchange of written, verbal, pictorial information, or video through devices like phones and computers.
• Expanded Definition of Documents: The definition of “documents” is broadened to encompass electronic or digital records, including emails.

Purpose of the Bill

The principal purpose of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill is to modernize and streamline India's criminal justice system by integrating technology at various stages of the legal process. This modernization is expected to improve efficiency, speed, and accuracy in both investigations and trials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill about?
Answer: It is a legislative proposal aimed at modernizing India's criminal justice system by integrating technology into legal proceedings, enhancing efficiency and speed.

Q2. What will the bill replace?
Answer: The bill seeks to repeal the existing Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) of 1973 while retaining essential procedural elements.

Q3. How will trials be conducted under the new bill?
Answer: Trials can be conducted electronically, using audio and video technology, which modernizes the trial process and reduces physical appearances.

Q4. What is the significance of time-bound processes in the bill?
Answer: Time-bound processes are crucial as they aim to expedite investigations and trials, ensuring quicker justice delivery.

Q5. How does the bill define electronic communication?
Answer: It defines electronic communication as the transmission of information through electronic devices, including phones and computers, allowing for efficient legal communication.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary aim of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill?
A) To repeal the Indian Penal Code
B) To modernize the criminal justice system
C) To establish new courts
D) To increase police powers
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which document will the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 Bill repeal?
A) Indian Evidence Act
B) Code of Criminal Procedure 1973
C) Civil Procedure Code
D) Juvenile Justice Act
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: How does the bill propose to conduct trials?
A) Only in person
B) Using electronic means
C) Through written submissions only
D) By mail
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What is a key feature of the proposed bill regarding timelines?
A) No specific timelines
B) Time-bound investigation and trial processes
C) Delayed trials
D) Unlimited trial duration
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What new definition does the bill introduce regarding documents?
A) Only paper documents
B) Electronic and digital records
C) Oral statements
D) Only signed documents
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What technology does the bill emphasize for crime investigation?
A) Manual records
B) Technology and forensic sciences
C) Traditional methods only
D) In-person investigations
Correct Answer: B