Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
INTRODUCTION The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 ("Bill") was introduced in Lok Sabha on August 11, 2023. If enacted, this Bill will repeal the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. The Code provides for the procedure for arrest, prosecution, and bail for offences under various Acts including the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The Bill retains most of the provisions of the Code. This Bill has introduced strict deadlines for processes of inquiry, investigation and trial, allowing police custody for more than 15 days, conducting trial if the accused has absconded, trial in electronic mode etc. The Bill wants to normalize electronic communication, electronic evidence and electronic forms in investigation, inquiry and trial. KEY CHANGES IN THE BILL The following are the key changes which are introduced in the Bill:- 1. Signatures and finger impression- The Code allows a Metropolitan/Judicial Magistrate to order any person to provide signatures or handwriti...