Haryana has witnessed a dramatic surge in its conviction rate for criminal cases, which has now reached an impressive 86 percent. This significant jump is directly attributed to the state's implementation of the three new criminal laws that came into effect across India on July 1, 2024. The announcement was made by the state's Director General of Police (DGP), Shatrujeet Kapur, highlighting a new era of efficiency in the justice delivery system.
A New Legal Framework Driving Results
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) have replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act. DGP Kapur emphasized that these new laws have provided a robust foundation for law enforcement. "The conviction rate in the state has reached 86 percent after the implementation of the three new criminal laws," Kapur stated, underscoring the tangible impact of the legislative change.
This high conviction rate is not an isolated statistic but the result of a concerted effort by the Haryana Police to adapt to and leverage the provisions of the new legal framework. The laws have introduced more victim-centric procedures and stricter protocols for evidence collection and investigation timelines, which are yielding positive outcomes in court.
Technology and Training: The Pillars of Success
DGP Shatrujeet Kapur credited the success to a multi-pronged strategy focused on technology and capacity building. A major factor has been the mandatory use of audiovisual recordings of crime scenes during investigations. This technological mandate ensures an indisputable record of evidence, leaving little room for doubt or manipulation during trial proceedings.
Furthermore, the Haryana Police have undertaken extensive training programs to ensure a smooth transition. Over 22,000 police personnel have been trained on the intricacies of the new laws. This includes not only officers investigating cases but also those working in police stations, ensuring that the first point of contact for citizens is well-versed in the new procedures. The training aims to eliminate procedural errors that could potentially weaken a case later in court.
Broader Impact on Law and Order
The implementation of the new laws is part of a broader push to modernize policing in Haryana. DGP Kapur also addressed the state's efforts in combating drug-related crimes, noting that properties of drug smugglers are being seized under the stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This demonstrates a holistic approach to maintaining law and order, where new general criminal laws and existing specialized statutes are being enforced with equal vigor.
The rise in the conviction rate to 86 percent sends a strong message about the state's improving criminal justice system. It indicates:
- Stronger Cases: Investigations are now more scientific and evidence-based.
- Faster Justice: Streamlined procedures aim to reduce delays.
- Greater Deterrence: A high probability of conviction acts as a deterrent to potential offenders.
While the data reflects progress since July 2024, the Haryana Police view this as an ongoing process. The focus remains on continuous training, technological adoption, and meticulous investigation to sustain and potentially improve this high conviction rate, thereby strengthening public trust in the legal system.
