On Wednesday (21 Feb), BCI unveiled a initiative aimed at assisting legal practitioners in adapting to the newly enacted criminal codes. With a “time-bound roadmap” for implementing the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, the BCI seeks to replace the longstanding IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act, respectively.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
NEW DELHI: The Bar Council of India (BCI) on Wednesday (21 Feb) has announced a significant initiative to support legal practitioners in the transition to the newly enacted criminal codes, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of India’s legal framework. With a “time-bound roadmap” for the operationalization of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, the BCI aims to replace the longstanding Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872, respectively.
In a detailed release, BCI Chief Manan Kumar Mishra lauded the enactment of these new codes, which were passed by Parliament in December and have since received presidential assent. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs is in the process of setting a date for these codes to officially take effect. Mishra described the new laws as “seminal,” highlighting their potential to usher in a new era by replacing “antiquated legislations hailing from the annals of the 19th century.”
He emphasized that these laws are designed to “laid down the bedrock for transparency, technological assimilation, and forensic advancements aimed at augmenting the efficacy of investigations and bolstering conviction rates.”
To ensure a smooth transition to these new codes, the BCI has committed to providing comprehensive support to legal practitioners. This includes a structured approach to training and upskilling, which will involve identifying key focus areas, developing a curriculum, collaborating with stakeholders, leveraging digital platforms, organizing special training programs, and conducting mock trials. Additionally, the BCI plans to establish regional training centers and launch outreach programs and awareness campaigns in partnership with state or local bar councils.
The BCI’s initiative has garnered appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, recognizing their “steadfast commitment to justice and visionary stewardship in navigating the corridors of progressive reforms in criminal jurisprudence.” The Council expressed hope that these new laws would soon be adopted by developing countries, moving away from outdated colonial laws.
Furthermore, the BCI applauded the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for its efforts to align the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems and the Interoperable Criminal Justice System frameworks with the principles of the new codes. The NCRB’s development of user-friendly applications is expected to significantly benefit all stakeholders involved in the legal process.
The Bureau of Police Research & Development was also commended for its comprehensive training programs designed to meet the needs of police personnel, prosecutors, and judicial officers. The establishment of state-level steering committees under chief secretaries to oversee the implementation of the new codes was hailed as a crucial step forward.
This initiative by the BCI represents a landmark effort to modernize India’s criminal justice system, promising enhanced transparency, efficiency, and fairness in legal proceedings. As the country prepares for this significant transition, the legal community’s active engagement and support will be essential in realizing the full potential of these progressive reforms.
FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE FOR MORE LEGAL UPDATES
