Know Your Rights: One Year of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
- The Legal Watch
- Jun 1
- 3 min read
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) is a major law that directly affects every citizen’s interaction with the criminal justice system in India. This new law came into force on July 1, 2024, replacing the British-era Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. As we complete one year since its implementation, it's important for all citizens to understand what this law means and how it can protect your rights.
🔍 What Is the BNSS?
BNSS is the law that lays down the procedure for criminal justice in India—from the moment a crime is reported, to investigation, arrest, bail, trial, and final judgment. It governs how the police, courts, and public interact in a criminal case.
🛡️ Key Features Citizens Should Know
1. E-FIR and Zero FIR
You can now file certain FIRs online from anywhere.
You can lodge an FIR in any police station, even if the crime didn’t happen there. The police must register it and transfer it to the concerned jurisdiction.
2. Rights of the Victim
Victims, especially in serious cases, now have the right to receive updates about their case.
Victims can also attend proceedings and give input during sentencing in specific crimes.
3. Video and Digital Evidence
Courts can now use video conferencing to record witness statements.
Digital evidence like CCTV footage and WhatsApp chats can be officially used, with safeguards.
4. Timeline for Investigation and Trial
Police must complete investigation of serious crimes within 90–180 days.
Trials must proceed without unnecessary delay, reducing long pending cases.
5. Forensic Support
In grave offences like rape or murder, the use of forensic evidence (DNA, fingerprints, etc.) is now mandatory for proper investigation.
6. Community Service as Punishment
For small offences, instead of jail, a judge can now order community service. This avoids unnecessary imprisonment for minor mistakes.
⚖️ Why This Law Matters to You
It empowers you to report crimes more easily, including cybercrimes or financial fraud.
It ensures your safety and dignity, especially if you're a victim of violence or harassment.
It promotes faster justice, reducing the burden of endless court dates and delays.
It makes the system more transparent, giving you more access and accountability from police and courts.
🧭 Practical Tips for Citizens
✅ Keep digital evidence safe – photos, chats, emails may help your case.
✅ Ask for Zero FIR if a police station refuses to file your complaint due to “jurisdiction”.
✅ Attend court hearings online if permitted and if you are a witness or victim.
✅ Know your right to information – you can ask police about the progress of your FIR.
✅ File complaints online where state portals support e-FIR (in select offences).
🚧 Challenges to Be Aware Of
While the law is progressive, implementation still varies:
Not all police stations are fully trained in BNSS rules yet.
Infrastructure like video conferencing and forensic labs is still catching up in rural areas.
Citizens must stay aware and insist on their rights if officials revert to old procedures.
🗣️ Final Word: Law is for the People
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 puts you—the citizen—at the center of justice. Whether you're reporting a crime, facing an investigation, or seeking protection, this law gives you more clarity, control, and legal safeguards.
Legal awareness is the first step to justice. Share this knowledge with your family, friends, and community—because informed citizens build a stronger democracy.
Digital Police Portal (For Online Complaints & FIR Services)
Dial 112 Services are now available in all States/UTs | For more information visit: www.112.gov.in
Commentaires