Chapters in The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023

Legislative Brief: The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) completely replaces the colonial-era Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973. It establishes a modernized, citizen-centric procedural code governing arrest, investigation, trial, forensic evidence, and bail across all criminal courts in India.

Key Modern Reforms Introduced by BNSS

1. Mandatory Forensic Investigations:
   Forensic examination is now mandated for serious offences punishable by seven years or more of imprisonment, requiring forensic experts to inspect crime scenes, document evidence, and prepare scientific reports.
2. Digital Evidence & Electronic Proceedings:
   Permits electronic filing, summons issuance via digital communication, online testimony of witnesses, and comprehensive recognition of electronic records.
3. Trial in Absentia of Proclaimed Offenders:
   When an accused individual has absconded to evade justice and cannot be brought before the court, criminal trial and judgment may proceed in their absence.
4. Strengthened Timeline & Bail Provisions:
   Standardizes investigation timelines, limits adjournments, introduces structured police custody provisions, and streamlines regular and anticipatory bail proceedings.

BNSS 2023 Comprehensive Chapter Directory