In a significant judicial endorsement, the Delhi High Court has lauded the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) for its groundbreaking provisions mandating the use of technology in criminal procedures. Justice Amit Mahajan highlighted the law’s requirement for videography and photography during search and seizure operations, aiming to bolster transparency and accountability in investigations.
“The BNSS marks a pivotal shift towards integrating technology into our criminal justice framework,” remarked Justice Mahajan during proceedings. He emphasized the law’s stipulation that even mobile phone cameras can be utilized to document search and seizure activities, underscoring its practicality in urban settings like Delhi.
The High Court’s appreciation came in response to a bail plea from an individual accused of drug distribution, where the absence of independent witnesses and documentation of seizure procedures drew criticism from the bench. Justice Mahajan’s critique of the police’s procedural lapses culminated in the grant of bail to the defendant.
Advocates Shivendra Singh and Bikram Dwivedi represented the accused, while the Delhi Police’s stance was presented by Additional Standing Counsel Rupali Bandhopadhya.
This legal development under BNSS exemplifies a progressive approach towards ensuring fairness and adherence to due process in criminal investigations, reflecting a judiciary keen on embracing technological advancements for enhanced judicial scrutiny.
