Demonstration Brings Clarity to New Criminal Laws

Dec 2025 : Since July 1, 2024, three new laws—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam—have come into effect across India. To help citizens understand the complete process from the moment a crime occurs to the final sentencing, a special exhibition was organised, where live demonstrations became a major attraction.

This demonstration showcased the entire journey of the justice system—from registering a crime to punishment and rehabilitation—presented in a clear, realistic, and educational manner. The new criminal laws give priority to scientific investigation, rapid response, digital evidence, stricter punishments, and victim-centric justice. The exhibition successfully served as an important awareness initiative, drawing nearly 25,000 to 30,000 visitors who gained knowledge about the new legal framework.

Hands-On Experience of India’s New Criminal Justice System

The demonstration based on India’s newly transformed criminal laws proved invaluable for citizens, law students, police officers, and various stakeholders in the justice system. It effectively showcased the philosophy, built-in processes, and practical application of these laws, which aim to enhance transparency, speed, and citizen-friendliness at all levels of the justice system.

Assurance of Justice Begins at the Control Room

Under the new laws, the process of registering a crime has become more simplified, digital, and accessible to all. A replica of a modern control room demonstrated how citizen complaints are received, online FIRs are filed, and immediate acknowledgments and responses are provided.

When a victim calls the control room, the reassuring words—*“Do not be afraid; we are with you”—*offer immediate comfort and reinforce the promise of justice.
With stronger victim-rights provisions, the complainant must be informed about every stage of the investigation. This section of the exhibition highlighted victim rights, special protections for women, and the fast-paced mechanisms of police response.

Immediate, Transparent, and Accountable Investigation

The police station section displayed the changed role of the police under the new laws. Time-limits have been fixed for investigations, and strict rules have been introduced to prevent delays and misuse of authority.
A CCTV-equipped interrogation room, dedicated facilities for women complainants, and a modern, rapid method of conducting panchnamas were demonstrated. These features clearly showcased the intention to enhance transparency and credibility in investigations.

Scientific Evidence at the Justice Assistant Forensic Laboratory

A key highlight of the new laws is the emphasis on scientific evidence.
Reducing reliance on oral testimony, the laws make forensic evidence mandatory in many cases. The laboratory section demonstrated advanced fingerprint identification, blood and toxin analysis, DNA profiling, and digital forensics involving mobile phones, laptops, and CCTV footage.

For offences carrying imprisonment of seven years or more, the new laws mandate evidence collection through a judicially-recognised forensic laboratory. Accordingly, mobile forensic vans are being deployed. These reforms encourage rapid, science-based investigations to avoid delays in court proceedings.

Medical & Toxicology Support: Speeding Justice for Victims

Medical examination is a crucial step in ensuring timely justice.
The new laws introduce clearer, more sensitive, and stricter provisions for examining assault victims, injured persons, and survivors of sexual violence.
The exhibition demonstrated the new medical standards, reporting timelines, doctor accountability, and the chain-of-custody process. Online transmission of medical reports to police stations has brought visible improvements in the speed of justice delivery.

Coordination Between Investigation and Prosecution

The role of the prosecution has been significantly strengthened.
Beyond scrutinising the police investigation report, the prosecution must verify that all necessary evidence is presented in court to establish charges.
This section explained how charges are framed, how evidence is presented, witness management, victim representation, and preparation of court documents—all aligned with the provisions of the new laws.

Faster Justice and Transparent Judicial Processes

Several reforms aim to reduce unnecessary delays in trials.
Online witness testimony, video-conferencing, time-bound hearings, dedicated victim support, digital charge sheets, and the use of digital evidence were all demonstrated.

The entire chain—from crime to conviction—was presented in a simple, easy-to-understand format. The demonstration also highlighted the laws designed to eliminate the problem of “date-after-date” delays.

Proper Sentencing Under the New Laws

Another important section displayed sentencing guidelines under the new criminal laws.
A courtroom scenario showed the appeal process in the High Court against the lower court’s punishment.
The shift from purely traditional penalties toward rehabilitation, social welfare, and effective deterrence was clearly explained.
Because offences are now classified more clearly and precisely, investigation, prosecution, and judicial decisions have become smoother and more consistent.

Interactive Learning Through Questionnaires

This demonstration was not just an information display—it offered a powerful glimpse into India’s evolving justice system.
The systematic use of technology, emphasis on scientific evidence, victim rights, and faster trial processes showcased how India’s legal system is becoming more capable, sensitive, and modern.

Attractive posters illustrated various sections of the laws, and interactive kiosks with two-minute digital quizzes allowed citizens to test and expand their understanding. Visitors could also submit digital feedback.
Stalls displayed products crafted by inmates from correctional facilities as well.

Understanding the Entire Justice Chain

Overall, the exhibition provided citizens with a clear understanding of the entire criminal justice chain—crime occurrence, registration, investigation, forensic evidence, medical support, prosecution, trial, and final judgment—under the new system.
This helped visitors easily compare the old and new provisions and appreciate the improvements made through India’s reformed criminal laws.