Srinagar, July 2, 2024: In a historic move, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have promptly begun implementing the newly introduced criminal laws across the Kashmir region. The ‘Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita’ (BNS), ‘Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita’ (BNSS), and ‘Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam’ (BSA) have now replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and Indian Evidence Act, respectively.
Ushering in a New Era of Justice
The first FIR (First Information Report) registered under the new legal framework was at the Police Station Bijbehara in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. This landmark case, documented as FIR No. 143/2024, was filed under Sections 125(a) and 281 of the BNS 2023.
“This sets a vital precedent for the implementation of the new criminal law framework and underscores the swift and decisive action taken by the Police in Anantnag to uphold the law and ensure justice for all,” a police spokesperson said.
Combating Illegal Mining Activities
In the north Kashmir district of Baramulla, the Police registered the first FIR under the BNS against illegal mining activities. The case, registered at Police Station Kreeri as FIR No. 93/2024, was filed under Sections 303(2) and 329(3) of the BNS 2023.
“This marks a significant milestone in Kashmir, as the Police in Baramulla have demonstrated their commitment to combating illegal mining and maintaining law and order,” the spokesperson added.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence
In the south Kashmir district of Kulgam, an FIR was registered at Police Station Yaripora following a written complaint from a woman. According to the complaint, Muhammad Umer and several others attacked and beat her, resulting in injuries.
The case, documented as FIR No. 47/2024, was filed under Sections 74 and 115(2) of the BNS 2023. The Police have initiated an investigation into the incident.
Adapting to the New Legal Framework
The swift registration of these FIRs across various districts of Kashmir demonstrates the J&K Police’s readiness to adapt to the new legal framework and their ongoing commitment to maintaining law and order in the region.
“The registration of FIRs under the BNS in Anantnag, Baramulla, and Kulgam districts is a testament to the preparedness of the J&K Police to embrace this new era of justice,” the spokesperson said.
Upgrading the Legal System
The BNS, BNSS, and BSA are not merely replacements for the previous laws, but rather an upgrade to the legal framework. These new laws aim to be more inclusive, addressing the nuances of modern societal issues and crimes that were not envisaged in the 19th and 20th centuries.
“The streamlined procedures and updated definitions within the new laws are expected to lead to faster resolution of cases and more effective justice delivery,” the spokesperson explained.
Landmark FIR in Sopore
In a significant development, the Police Station Sopore in north Kashmir registered its first FIR under the BNS. The case, documented as FIR No. 25/2024, was registered at the Police Station Panzalla under Sections 223, 303(ii), and 326A of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
This marks a historic moment as the new criminal code, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), came into force on Monday, and the Sopore Police wasted no time in implementing it.
Ensuring Seamless Transition
The swift and decisive action taken by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in registering FIRs under the new criminal laws across various districts of Kashmir showcases their commitment to ensuring a seamless transition to the new legal framework.
“The registration of these FIRs demonstrates the J&K Police’s readiness to adapt to the BNS, BNSS, and BSA, and their unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law and delivering justice to the people of Kashmir,” the spokesperson said.
Modernizing the Legal System
The introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam is a significant step towards modernizing the legal system in India, including the Jammu and Kashmir region.
“These new laws are designed to address the complexities of modern crime, ensure swifter justice, and enhance the efficiency of the legal system,” the spokesperson added.
Positive Outlook for the Future
The swift implementation of the new criminal laws by the Jammu and Kashmir Police is a promising sign for the future of the region. It indicates the authorities’ commitment to adapting to changing times and providing a more effective and inclusive justice system for the people of Kashmir.
“The registration of these FIRs under the new legal framework marks a new chapter in the history of law and order in Jammu and Kashmir. We are confident that this transition will lead to a more efficient and just criminal justice system that better serves the needs of the people,” the spokesperson concluded.