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Gurugram cops gear up, undergo training to implement three new laws from July 1
“The BNS 2023 consists of 358 sections, a reduction from IPC’s 511 sections, but with enhanced penalties and provisions,” police commissioner Arora
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As July 1 approaches, the Gurugram Police have geared up to implement the new set of laws that will overhaul the existing Indian Penal Code (IPC), Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act. Over 4,500 police officers have undergone rigorous training by 379 master trainers from the state-level police training centres, ensuring that they are well-versed with the new legal frameworks, police officers aware of the matter said on Saturday.
From July 1, all the three new laws — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS 2023), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS 2023 ) and Bharatiya Sakshya Act — will be implemented, they added.
Gurugram police commissioner Vikas Arora held a special meeting with police officers, deputy commissioners of police (DCPs), district prosecutors, assistant commissioners of police (ACPs) and station house officers (SHOs) and briefed them of the upcoming changes.
“The BNS 2023 consists of 358 sections, a reduction from IPC’s 511 sections, but with enhanced penalties and provisions, including community service for certain offences,” Arora said.
In BNS, the punishment duration has been increased for 33 offences, fines have been increased for 83 offences, and mandatory minimum sentences have been introduced for 23 offences, said officials.
Arora emphasised the need for a thorough understanding of these laws to ensure smooth and effective enforcement. “The police force have completed their training and is now ready to implement the new legal codes, marking a significant shift in the judicial landscape of India and in the district,” he said.
“BNSS contains 531 sections, compared to the 484 sections in CrPC, and introduces several new procedural requirements, such as mandatory video recording during searches and inspections by forensic experts for serious crimes,” he added.
The commissioner said that now rape victims can record their statements through any audio/video electronic communication, including mobile phones, under BNSS provisions. “Summons/notices and warrants will be served via email and in cases of habitual offenders, absconding criminals, organised crime, terrorist acts, narcotics-related crimes, illegal possession of weapons or ammunition, murder, rape, and crimes against state, there are provisions for handcuffing accused during arrest or court appearance under BNSS Section 43,” Arora said.
Police said that in cases of absconding criminals, trials can proceed in their absence, starting three months after the charges are framed. Courts must frame charges within 60 days of the first hearing and deliver verdicts within 30 days after the trial concludes. Judgments must be uploaded on the court portal within seven days, said police.
Gurugram police spokesperson Sandeep Kumar said that Arora advised all officers present in the meeting to thoroughly understand the challenges and solutions in implementing the new laws. “Instructions have been issued to emphasise the need for studying the special courses provided regarding these laws to ensure effective policing and conviction of offenders,” he said.
