The Madras High Court Advocates’ Association (MHCAA) unanimously decided to boycott court proceedings on July 8 to protest three new criminal laws. The resolution emphasized the need for members’ support and cooperation for the protest’s success, citing concerns about the impact on justice and fairness in the legal system.
From July 1, the Indian Penal Code will be superseded by the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, introducing significant reforms in trial proceedings and handling of fugitive criminals. A landmark change will allow courts to hold trials and pass judgments in absentia, ensuring that the absence of the accused does not impede justice, which has been a critical issue under the current system.
The Centre has confirmed that three new criminal laws—BNS 2023, BNSS 2023, and BSA 2023—will replace the IPC, CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act from July 1, 2024, to modernize India’s criminal justice system. These laws represent a significant shift, addressing contemporary crime dynamics and incorporating global best practices.
Today, On 19th June, The Calcutta High Court challenged Suvendu Adhikari’s plan for a protest and suggested an alternate venue, aiming to balance the right to protest with maintaining public order. Adhikari’s counsel argued for the protest at Raj Bhavan, but the court directed them to propose an alternative venue by the next hearing on June 21. The court also instructed the Advocate General to address previous violations of prohibitory orders.
The Delhi High Court dismissed forgery allegations brought by Anchor toothpaste against Colgate and its officials. Anchor accused Colgate of forging trademark registration documents, but the court found insufficient evidence to support the claim. The court nullified the complaint and summoning order, clearing Colgate of the allegations. The case underscores the need for concrete evidence in legal actions.
India is poised to undertake a landmark revision by amending three laws from the colonial era: the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act. The Central Government has issued a notification stating that three recently enacted criminal laws will come into force on July 1st, 2024.
The Delhi High Court emphasized that trial courts must have the conviction judgment prepared before declaring an accused guilty. This ruling came after a case where two men were ordered into custody before the judgment was ready. The court directed District and Sessions Judges to ensure proper procedures to safeguard the rights of the accused.
The Allahabad High Court ruled that an offense under the SC/ST Act must occur in public view to be established. The court quashed proceedings for an offense committed in a private residence, emphasizing that intentional insult or intimidation causing humiliation must be in public view. This ruling is significant in fighting caste-based violence and discrimination in India.
The Apex Court was hearing a petition filed by a 64-year-old businessman, Ram Issrani, who accused the ED of illegally arresting him in an alleged bank fraud case.
On 7th May: Justice Surya Kant of the Supreme Court praised India’s early recognition of victims’ rights, citing the Code of Criminal Procedure and judicial precedents. He highlighted India’s progressive stance, cautioning against a one-size-fits-all approach to human rights and emphasizing their intrinsic role in Indian culture. The Supreme Court has played a crucial role in expanding fundamental rights in India.
