Key Changes in the Criminal Law 2024 in India – A Simple Guide for Citizens
🔍 Key Changes in the Criminal Law 2024 in India – A Simple Guide for Citizens
🧭 Introduction
India’s criminal justice system has taken a historic turn in 2024. The Government of India has replaced three core colonial-era criminal laws – IPC, CrPC, and Evidence Act – with three new modern laws:
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023
These laws came into effect on 1st July 2024, marking a new era in India’s criminal justice delivery system.
In this article, we explain the key changes in a simple and clear manner, useful for common citizens, law students, and legal professionals.
⚖️ 1. IPC Replaced by Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
✅ Key Changes:
- Sedition Law Repealed: Section 124A IPC (Sedition) is replaced with a new offence – “Acts Endangering Sovereignty of India” under Section 152 of BNS.
- Mob Lynching Recognized: Group violence leading to death is now specifically punished under Section 103(2) BNS.
- Organised Crime & Terrorism: New provisions introduced for terrorism and gang-related activities.
- Snatching is a separate offence: Unlike IPC, BNS recognizes snatching separately from theft.
👨⚖️ 2. CrPC Replaced by Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)
✅ Key Changes:
- FIR Registration via Online Mode: Police can now record FIRs digitally, with provision for video recording.
- Zero FIR Mandated: FIR can be lodged in any police station and transferred to jurisdiction later.
- Trial in Absence of Accused: In cases where the accused absconds, trial can proceed in absentia.
- Timelines for Investigation & Judgment:
- Investigation: Max 90 days
- Chargesheet: Within 60 days
- Judgment: Within 45 days of the conclusion
Ministry of Law and Justice-
📚 3. Indian Evidence Act Replaced by Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)
✅ Key Changes:
- Electronic Evidence = Primary Evidence: WhatsApp messages, emails, and CCTV are now fully admissible.
- Presumption of Innocence Reinforced: Burden of proof remains on prosecution.
- Digital Signature Admissibility: Official and private records maintained electronically will be treated as evidence.
🧑💼 4. Impact on Common Citizens
Filing complaints becomes easier – Digital FIR & online police complaint system introduced.
Faster Trials – Defined time limits will help reduce pendency.
Women & Children protection strengthened – Special protections and quick trial mechanisms.
Victim’s Rights Recognized – Right to be informed, participate, and seek compensation.
🧾 5. Key Sections to Remember (BNS, BNSS, BSA)
| Law | Important Sections |
|---|---|
| BNS | Sec 103 (Mob lynching), 152 (Sovereignty), 69 (Sexual offences) |
| BNSS | Sec 35 (Zero FIR), 193 (Timelines), 356 (Trial in Absence) |
| BSA | Sec 61-65 (Electronic evidence), Sec 70 (Presumption), Sec 85 (Digital records) |
❓ FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are IPC and CrPC removed now?
Yes. From 1 July 2024, they are repealed and replaced by BNS and BNSS.
Q2: Can FIR be filed online under new law?
Yes. BNSS allows electronic registration of FIRs.
Q3: Are WhatsApp chats valid in court now?
Yes. Under BSA 2023, electronic records are now primary evidence.
📌 Conclusion
The criminal law reforms of 2024 are not just changes in law—they are steps toward a faster, transparent, and citizen-friendly legal system. As an aware citizen or legal professional, knowing these changes will help you stay informed and empowered.
If you have a specific case or query, you may consult a legal expert or contact our legal helpline on this site.
