New criminal laws will ensure swift justice: Mizoram IPS

Aizawl: In a media workshop organized to raise awareness about three new criminal laws, Lalbiakthanga Khiangte, IPS, IGP (Law & Order) Mizoram Police, assured that the new legislation will ensure swift justice and better protection for victims.

The one-day workshop, held on Wednesday, was organized by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, in collaboration with the Press Information Bureau, Aizawl, with Lalbiakzama, Speaker of the Mizoram State Assembly, as the chief guest.

The chief guest praised the organizers for their initiative in raising awareness about the new criminal laws, emphasizing the importance of understanding these laws. He provided historical context, explaining that the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860, Criminal Procedure Code 1973, and Indian Evidence Act 1872 are outdated laws that have undergone numerous amendments. He noted that these laws were originally designed to suit British colonial interests and the three new criminal laws have been introduced to better serve Indian citizens as of July 1, 2024.

Lalbiakzama urged the law and home departments to take strong initiatives to ensure the new laws are effectively implemented in Mizoram and to increase public awareness about them. He also advised media personnel to play a crucial role in educating the public, stating that the Mizoram Journalist Association bears significant responsibility in this regard.

Lalbiakthanga Khiangte reported on the Mizoram Police’s preparedness for implementing the new laws, highlighting their victim-centric approach, which aims to protect women and children and prioritize victim compensation. He expressed optimism that the principle of ‘justice delayed is justice denied’ would be mitigated, as cases will now be resolved more swiftly.

According to the new provisions, ongoing cases will be allowed only two adjournments. Additionally, FIRs can now be filed electronically, and FIR copies will be provided free of charge by the police. People will also have the right to know the status and extent of decisions in their cases.

Associate Prof. P. Lalremruati from Govt. Mizoram Law College conducted a seminar on the three new criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) 2023.

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