Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 25 June 2024
As the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, and Bharatiya Sahkshya Adhiniyam 2023 prepare for enforcement starting July 1, 2024, the Andaman & Nicobar Police are leading an intensive awareness campaign across various community segments to ensure effective implementation.
The New Criminal Laws aim to enhance safety and justice for women, children, and vulnerable groups, emphasising human rights and imposing stringent penalties on offenders. Key provisions include the introduction of Zero FIR, which allows crimes to be registered irrespective of location, and the provision for reporting offences electronically. Victims and accused individuals will receive a free copy of the FIR.
The laws also introduce harsher penalties for sexual offences, especially those involving minors, with increased minimum sentences and stricter punishments for repeat offenders. The definition of sexual harassment now covers a broader range of behaviours, ensuring comprehensive protection. Additionally, the laws address cybercrimes like data theft and cyberstalking with stricter provisions. Other significant changes include streamlined trial procedures and enhanced measures for victim and witness protection, establishing a more robust and responsive legal framework.
Andaman & Nicobar Police are actively enhancing their capabilities to handle the new laws and modern policing techniques. All 4,512 police personnel have been sensitised to the latest criminal laws and received specialised training from the Central Detective Training Institute (CDTI) in Kolkata. Each officer is registered on the iGOT platform and uses the SANKALAN App for operational support. A group of 76 police personnel has been trained as Master Trainers by CDTI Kolkata through an intensive 10-day course. Forensic experts have provided training on single-digit photography, videography, and crime scene examination. Investigation officers (IOs) are learning to calculate hash values and maintain the chain of custody for digital evidence. Training in coordination with the National Informatics Centre (NIC) is ongoing for police personnel, judicial officers, prosecutors, prison, law, and vigilance officials. IOs are practicing mock investigations aligned with the new laws.
Given the topography of the islands, forensic teams are required to visit crime scenes in heinous cases. As a result, a dedicated police marine forensic boat has been stationed in Nicobar District.
To facilitate the new laws’ implementation and raise public awareness, the A&N Police have launched several initiatives. A 24×7 dedicated helpline (9531856083) has been established to assist with navigating the new laws. An in-house chatbot named ‘Naye Kanoon Mitra’ is operational on the A&N Police website for easy access to information. Sensitization efforts have reached self-help groups (SHGs), Anganwadi workers, and nurses, ensuring broad community awareness. Community outreach programs have sensitized Gram Panchayats across districts, enhancing confidence and understanding of the laws. The importance of the new criminal laws was also highlighted during the Republic Day parade with a dedicated tableau.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police remain committed to strengthening the bond between the police and the community through continuous interaction and public engagement. Extensive training programs for personnel and awareness campaigns for citizens will continue as the New Criminal Laws take effect on July 1, 2024.