Question

Which of the following changes has Bharatiya Nagarik suraksha Samhita(BNSS) brought to criminal procedure?

• A. Replaced all IPC sections
• B. Video-recorded confessions
• C. Presumption of guilt
• D. Scrapping of all bail rights

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Video-recorded confessions

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Samhita (BNSS) and Video-Recorded Confessions

• The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Samhita (BNSS), 2023, which is set to replace the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973, introduces significant changes to criminal procedure in India.
• A key amendment brought forth by the BNSS is the provision for video-recording of confessions made by accused individuals.
• Previously, confessions were primarily recorded in writing by police or magistrates.
• The BNSS mandates that confessions made before a police officer, not below the rank of Superintendent of Police, or before a Judicial Magistrate, should be recorded through video conferencing.
• This change aims to enhance the reliability and integrity of confessions, reduce the scope for allegations of coercion or duress during the recording process, and provide a more accurate and verifiable record of the accused's statement.
• This aligns with international best practices and technological advancements in evidence collection and recording.
• The BNSS seeks to modernize India's criminal justice system, and the introduction of video-recorded confessions is a significant step in this direction, focusing on transparency and fairness in investigations and trials.