New Changes Introduced in Indian Criminal Procedure Code

 The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023, which seeks to replace the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1898, has introduced a number of new changes to the CrPC. Some of the key new changes include:

• Allowing for video conferencing during trials: The bill allows for the use of video conferencing during trials, which could help to reduce the backlog of cases and make the criminal justice system more efficient.
• Making handcuffing mandatory for certain offenses: The bill makes handcuffing mandatory for certain offenses, such as murder, rape, and counterfeit currency. This is aimed at preventing accused persons from escaping or harming witnesses.
• Introducing community service as a new form of punishment: The bill introduces community service as a new form of punishment for certain offenses. This could help to reduce the burden on prisons and give offenders the opportunity to make amends for their crimes.
• Making videography of seizures mandatory: The bill makes videography of seizures mandatory, which could help to reduce corruption and ensure that evidence is properly handled.
• Allowing for the trial of proclaimed offenders in absentia: The bill allows for the trial of proclaimed offenders in absentia. This could help to bring criminals to justice even if they have absconded.

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023 is currently being reviewed by a parliamentary standing committee. It is expected to be debated and voted on in Parliament in the coming months.

In addition to the above changes, the bill also makes a number of other changes to the CrPC, such as updating the language of the code to make it more gender-neutral and inclusive. The bill also aims to simplify the code and make it more accessible to ordinary citizens.

The new CrPC bill has been welcomed by some legal experts, who argue that it is a much-needed reform of the outdated code. However, others have criticized the bill, arguing that it is too harsh and that some of the new provisions could be misused.

 Here are some of the specific new amendments proposed in the bill:

 Capital punishment for mob lynching: The bill proposes to introduce a new offense of mob lynching, punishable by death or life imprisonment.

Imprisonment for sexual intercourse on false promise of marriage: The bill proposes to make sexual intercourse on false promise of marriage a punishable offense, with a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Increased punishment for rape and murder: The bill proposes to increase the maximum punishment for rape and murder to life imprisonment or death.

Reduced number of adjournments in trials: The bill proposes to reduce the number of adjournments that can be granted in trials.

Easier compensation for victims: The bill proposes to make it easier for victims of crime to get compensation.

The bill is still under consideration, and it is possible that some of the proposed amendments may be changed or removed before the bill is passed into law.