The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 is a significant legislative reform introduced in India to replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC). It aims to modernize the criminal justice system and align it with contemporary needs and constitutional values. Here are some key highlights:
- Focus on Timely Justice: The BNS emphasizes completing investigations within fixed timeframes—90 days for minor offenses and 180 days for serious ones. This is intended to reduce delays and ensure efficient justice delivery.
- Victim-Centric Reforms: It introduces measures to protect the rights of victims and ensure their active participation in the justice process.
- Accountability in Arrests: The law sets specific guidelines for arrests, especially in cases involving minor offenses, to prevent misuse of power and safeguard civil liberties.
- Enhanced Judicial Oversight: Regular updates to magistrates on case progress are mandated, ensuring greater accountability during investigations.
