On May 13, 2025, a significant review meeting was held in New Delhi, chaired by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, alongside Puducherry’s Lieutenant Governor, Shri K. Kailashnathan. The meeting focused on assessing the progress of implementing three new criminal laws in the Union Territory of Puducherry, aiming to strengthen the criminal justice system.
Key Attendees and Objectives
The meeting saw the participation of key officials, including the Home Minister of Puducherry, Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police (DGP) of Puducherry. Representatives from the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), and senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs were also present. The discussions centered on the effective rollout of provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensic services.
Progress in Implementation
Commendation for Puducherry’s Efforts
Shri Amit Shah praised Puducherry for its commendable efforts in implementing the new criminal laws, introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He emphasized the need for swift and comprehensive adoption of these laws to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the justice system.
Language and Accessibility
The Home Minister directed that all First Information Reports (FIRs) in Puducherry be registered in Tamil, with provisions to make them available in other languages as needed. This step aims to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all residents of the Union Territory.
Strengthening Forensic and Legal Systems
National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS)
Shri Shah stressed the importance of recording fingerprints of all arrested individuals under the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS). This would optimize the use of a centralized database, aiding in faster and more accurate criminal identification.
Role of Director of Prosecution
The Home Minister highlighted that the Director of Prosecution (DoP) should have exclusive authority to provide legal advice in cases, ensuring consistency and professionalism in the prosecution process.
Adoption of Modern Technologies
The meeting underscored the importance of fully implementing modern tools such as e-summons, e-Sakshya, and Nyaya Shruti. These digital solutions aim to streamline judicial processes, reduce delays, and enhance transparency. Additionally, the use of advanced forensic technologies was emphasized to strengthen investigations and evidence collection.
Regular Monitoring and Accountability
To ensure steady progress, Shri Shah directed that the Chief Secretary and DGP of Puducherry review the implementation of the new laws weekly. The Home Minister of Puducherry was instructed to conduct reviews every 15 days, while the Lieutenant Governor was tasked with monthly assessments. This structured approach aims to maintain accountability and address challenges promptly.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting
- Swift Implementation: Prioritize the full adoption of new criminal laws to enhance justice delivery.
- Language Accessibility: Register FIRs in Tamil, with translations available as needed.
- NAFIS Integration: Record fingerprints of all arrested individuals for efficient criminal tracking.
- Digital Tools: Implement e-summons, e-Sakshya, and Nyaya Shruti to modernize judicial processes.
- Regular Reviews: Conduct frequent assessments to ensure steady progress and accountability.
Conclusion
The review meeting held on May 14, 2025, in New Delhi marked a pivotal step toward modernizing Puducherry’s criminal justice system. By adopting new laws, leveraging technology, and ensuring regular monitoring, the Union Territory is poised to enhance the efficiency and transparency of its legal framework. These efforts align with India’s broader vision of a developed and just society.
Important Facts About the New Criminal Laws
- New Criminal Laws: A set of three laws introduced to modernize India’s criminal justice system, replacing colonial-era laws with more efficient and transparent frameworks.
- NAFIS: National Automated Fingerprint Identification System, a centralized database for storing and analyzing fingerprints to aid criminal investigations.
- e-Summons: A digital system for issuing court summons, reducing delays and improving accessibility.
- e-Sakshya: A platform for managing digital evidence, ensuring secure and efficient handling of case-related data.
- Nyaya Shruti: A digital tool designed to enhance judicial processes through audio-visual documentation and transparency.