The BNS introduces a transformative approach to the reporting of crimes against women through electronic First Information Reports (e-FIRs). This aids in swift reporting of such heinous offences requiring immediate attention. The digital platform facilitates immediate reporting, overcoming traditional barriers and reflects the essence of established legal principles emphasizing timely reporting. Judicial precedents, including the Harpal Singh case (1981), resonate in recognizing societal factors influencing reporting delays.
- The electronic platform offers a discreet avenue for victims to report offences. This aligns with the evolving socio-legal approach to empower victims to navigate the legal process without fear of stigma. The historical under-reporting of such crimes due to societal pressures is addressed, resonating with the broader societal narrativeadvocatingforavictim-centric and empathetic legal system. Public awareness campaigns can bridge the gap between technological innovations and societal understanding. Effective
communication is paramount to encourage the use of e-FIRs and dispel any apprehensions regarding their reliability and security. - Addressing Social Concerns of Promise & Deceit: Hoax assurances of Marriage. BNS introduces Clause 69 to specifically tackle social concerns related to false promises of marriage. This provision is a marked departure from the current legal landscape under the IPC, which often relies on broader sections like 375 and 376 to address cases of sexual intercourse based on false promises.
- Clause 69 creates a targeted penalty for individuals engaging in sexual intercourse through deceitful means or making promises to marry without genuine intent. The move is an attempt to fill a significant gap in the existing legal framework, providing a more explicit focus on false promises of marriage.
- The cornerstone of India’s criminal law reforms lies in emboldening the complainant. The revised Clause 193(3) of BNSS, mirroring Section 173(2) of CrPC, mandates a symbioticrelationship between law enforcement and the aggrieved. The police will now update the complainant on the investigation’s trajectory, a departure from conventional practices. The electronic dispensation of this information heralds a digital era, fostering transparency.