JAMMU, APRIL 26: Under the patronage of Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh(Patron-in-Chief, Arun Palli and guidance of Chairperson and Members of Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy, the Jammu & Kashmir Judicial Academy today organised a one day orientation programme on “Criminal Justice Administration with special reference to New Criminal Laws” (A-048/25) at its Police Auditorium, Gulshan Ground, Jammu.
Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Chairperson, Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy, in his inaugural address, underscored the timeless relevance of law by quoting Manusmriti, observing that law is the very essence of dharma and acts as a silent guardian even when society rests. He emphasized that law must continuously evolve in response to changing societal needs and highlighted that criminal justice, though an ancient concept, requires constant modernization. Referring to the newly enacted legislations—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), he said that these laws are aligned with the contemporary realities, particularly by incorporating advancements in electronic and digital technology.
Justice Oswal stressed that the success of these new legal frameworks depends upon the collective efforts of all stakeholders within the criminal justice system. He called for a collaborative, progressive and forward-looking approach to ensure that the true spirit and objectives of the new laws are effectively realized in practice.
Justice Rahul Bharti, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and Member, Governing Committee for J&K Judicial Academy in his address emphasized that the criminal justice system is a collective enterprise involving the police, prosecution and judiciary, each playing an interdependent role. He observed that while the new criminal laws mark a transition from the earlier framework, the real challenge lies in overcoming the entrenched stereotypes and systemic inefficiencies. He said that despite individual efforts, the system often appears disorganised due to routine practices and lack of coordination.
Highlighting the need for a shift in mindset, Justice Bharti stressed that all stakeholders must engage more deeply with their roles and take collective responsibility for improving the system. He also underscored the importance of continuous self-study and introspection to move beyond the status quo and ensure effective implementation of the new laws.
Naseer Ahmad Dar, Director, J&K Judicial Academy, emphasized the significance of such orientation programmes in fostering a deeper understanding of the newly enacted criminal laws. He expressed sincere gratitude to Justice Rajnesh Oswal and Justice Rahul Bharti for their insightful deliberations and valuable guidance, which greatly enriched the programme.
The orientation programme comprised three technical sessions conducted by Sakal Bhushan, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of India and High Court of J&K and Ladakh. The sessions covered key aspects of the newly introduced criminal laws, including the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).
The learned resource person through PowerPoint Presentation focused on an overview and comparative analysis of the new criminal laws, highlighting significant additions, deletions and structural changes.
In the second session, Sakal Bhushan deliberated on pre-trial processes, the role of Magistrates and procedural reforms under BNSS, including trial procedures, adjournments, appeals and revisions.
In last session, Sakal Bhushan addressed the evidentiary aspects under BSA, including electronic evidence, as well as an overview of BNS and its punishment framework.
The programme witnessed participation from Judicial Officers, Public Prosecutors/Assistant Public Prosecutors, officers from the Police Department, Legal Aid Defence Counsels and law students from across the Jammu Province.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by the Director, J&K Judicial Academy.
