The Indian criminal procedure, derived mainly from the British Raj, includes the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, which laid the foundation for the current Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (CrPC). The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), set to be enforced on July 1, 2024, aims to replace the existing CrPC with a more efficient law. The existing CrPC, with its colonial legacy, is often seen as outdated and ill-equipped to handle the evolving nature of criminal activities, especially in the digital age. The BNSS seeks to address ongoing challenges such as complex procedures, case backlogs, low conviction rates, delayed justice, and inadequate technology adoption. Its primary objective is the protection (Suraksha) of citizens from procedural exploitation through the closure of existing legal loopholes. One of the significant changes introduced by the BNSS is the simplification of criminal procedures, which is expected to reduce the duration of trials and alleviate the burden on the judiciary. Additionally, the new code implements strict timelines for various procedural stages. The BNSS also enhances the investigatory powers of the police, allowing for more effective and thorough investigations. Further, the new law aims to reduce the reliance on outdated methods and incorporate digital tools to simplify processes and improve efficiency. This paper aims to discuss the key changes brought by Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 (BNSS) in detail and provide a thorough understanding of the new law.
