On 1 July 2024, three new criminal statutes took effect: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA). They replaced the Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Indian Evidence Act. Anyone studying law now must learn the new provisions, and exam questions, moot problems and practice all use them.
This article focuses on BNSS and BSA, the procedure and evidence laws, and explains how they fit into the criminal law subjects of your LLB.
Key Takeaways
- BNSS replaces the CrPC and BSA replaces the Indian Evidence Act.
- BNSS adds provisions on electronic communication, timelines and forensic involvement.
- BSA gives formal recognition to electronic and digital records as evidence.
- Section numbers have changed, so use comparison tables while you learn.
- A criminal law course or LLM can deepen your command of the subject.
The Three New Criminal Laws
BNS defines offences and punishments, BNSS governs how cases are investigated, tried and appealed, and BSA sets the rules on what counts as evidence and how it is proved. Together they form the base of every criminal case. If you are still working out the substantive law, start with The Transition from IPC to BNS.
BNSS: The New Procedure Code
BNSS retains the broad structure of the CrPC while introducing new features:
- Provisions for electronic communication in processes such as summons and recording of statements
- Defined timelines at several stages of investigation and trial
- Audio-video recording of search and seizure
- Greater involvement of forensic experts in serious offences
- Provisions for trial in the absence of a proclaimed offender, subject to safeguards
Read the sections in the order a case moves, from information to the police through to judgment and appeal.
BSA: The New Evidence Law
BSA keeps the core ideas of relevance, admissibility, burden of proof and examination of witnesses. Its most noticeable change is the treatment of electronic and digital records, which are brought squarely into the definition of documents, along with a certificate process for producing them in court. This matters in cases involving messages, call records and CCTV footage.
Old and New at a Glance
| Area | Earlier law | Current law |
|---|---|---|
| Offences and punishments | Indian Penal Code, 1860 | Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 |
| Criminal procedure | Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 | Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 |
| Evidence | Indian Evidence Act, 1872 | Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 |
Digital Evidence and Cyber Offences
Modern prosecutions rely on phones, bank records and online activity. Scams such as digital arrest, where victims are pressured by callers claiming to be officials, show why courts need clear rules on electronic proof. See Digital Arrest Scams in India for the legal background.
How to Study These Criminal Law Subjects
- Keep a conversion table from old to new section numbers.
- Learn the procedural flow first, then the exceptions.
- Link each evidence rule to a practical example.
- Practise problems and take part in the moot court, where procedure and evidence come alive.
The Criminal Law in Chennai: Curriculum, Degrees, Careers guide shows how the course is taught locally, and the Centre for Access to Justice shows how criminal procedure affects real clients.
Specialising Further
After an LLB, the LL.M. in Criminal Law and Practice builds depth in procedure, evidence and forensic issues. See LLM in Criminal Law and Practice for course details. New students can begin at LLB Admissions and review the Admission Process.
Ready to apply? See the steps from application to admission. View the Admission Process →
Frequently Asked Questions
Both took effect on 1 July 2024 together with the BNS.
Generally, proceedings that began before the date continue under the earlier laws, while new matters follow the new ones. Confirm specifics with the transitional provisions.
It typically covers procedure, evidence, forensic issues and advanced topics in criminal practice.
Related Reads
- The Transition from IPC to BNS. The substantive law.
- Criminal Law in Chennai: Curriculum, Degrees, Careers. Study options.
- LLM in Criminal Law and Practice. Postgraduate route.
- Digital Arrest Scams in India. Cyber law context.
- Moot Court at VMLS. Practise advocacy.
