Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita Takes Effect: First FIR Registered Against Delhi Street Vendor

The first FIR under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, India's new criminal law framework, was registered against a street vendor at Kamla Market Police Station in New Delhi on Monday. The three new criminal laws that replace the colonial era laws came into effect across the country on July 1.

As per reports, the person identified as Pankaj Kumar is a resident of Barh, Bihar and was charged under Section 285 for allegedly obstructing the movement under the footbridge at New Delhi Railway Station while selling water and tobacco from his cart. The patrolling officers reportedly asked him to remove his cart, however he did not pay any head, following which, a FIR was registered against him.

This FIR signifies the beginning of enforcement under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, which replaces the Indian Penal Code with 358 revised sections aimed at modernizing the justice system. Key features include provisions for Zero FIRs, online police complaint registration, electronic summons, and mandatory videography of crime scenes for serious offenses. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud has acknowledged the transformative impact of these laws on societal conduct, recognizing them as a watershed moment for India's legal framework.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has defended the new laws, emphasizing their role in ensuring swift justice and adapting to contemporary crime challenges. However, opposition parties, including the Congress, have criticized the timing and implementation process, calling for more extensive consultations before enforcement.