Guwahati: Assam has achieved a significant improvement in its conviction rate under the three new criminal laws introduced nine months ago, with a rate of 66% compared to 25% under the previous colonial-era statutes.
This marks an increase of more than 2.5 times, according to Assam Police Special Director General (CID) Munna Prasad Gupta.
Gupta attributed the improved conviction rate to the mandatory use of technology in investigations, which has reduced instances of witnesses turning hostile during trials.
The introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) on July 1, 2024, replaced the outdated Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act.
The new laws emphasise the use of digital evidence, making it tamper-proof and convenient for court proceedings.
Videography during search and seizure operations has been mandated, increasing transparency and accountability in investigations.
E-summons have also been introduced, further streamlining the judicial process.
Gupta noted that Assam Police has been able to file charge sheets within the stipulated 60-90 days in 66% of cases registered under the new laws.
The judiciary has also been empowered with stricter time limits, allowing fewer adjournments during trials, which contrasts sharply with the indefinite delays previously permitted.
Furthermore, the increased use of forensic experts at crime scenes has improved evidence quality, contributing to the higher conviction rate.
Training has played a key role in the successful implementation of the new laws.
All investigating officers and constables received comprehensive training before the rollout, and ongoing refresher sessions are planned to maintain compliance.
The government is also addressing gaps by recruiting more scientific experts and developing standard operating procedures to assist field officers.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently commended Assam for its achievements under the new laws, particularly for adhering to the stipulated timelines for charge-sheeting in the majority of cases.
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During a review meeting in the Northeast, Shah launched a book titled New Criminal Laws: Standard Operating Procedures and Rules, which was published by the Criminal Investigation Department of Assam Police.
Gupta acknowledged that there is room for improvement, with 34% of cases resulting in acquittals.
As more cases under the new laws proceed to trial, he expects further improvements in the overall conviction rate.
He highlighted that the new framework is victim-centric, with features such as ‘zero FIR,’ allowing complaints to be lodged anywhere, regardless of the crime’s location, ensuring greater accessibility for victims.
