Agartala (Tripura) July 20: Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on today said the State Government has rolled out the Witness Protection Scheme for safer testimonials and encourage witness to cooperate in criminal investigations.
Attending the workshop on Investigation and Prosecution under the New Criminal Laws and the NDPS Act. https://t.co/NZ9iuyihml
— Prof.(Dr.) Manik Saha (@DrManikSaha2) July 20, 2025
Addressing the media in Agartala, he highlighted the need to overcome social stigma that often discourages witnesses from coming forward.
New Criminal Laws Come into Force
Dr. Saha informed that, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, three newly framed criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023—have officially come into effect from July 1, 2024. These laws aim to ensure faster and more effective justice delivery to victims.
Training Workshop Held on New Legal Framework
The Chief Minister was speaking after attending a workshop on the Investigation and Prosecution aspects under the new legal codes and the NDPS Act, held at Pragna Bhavan. He emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts from all stakeholders to implement the new laws thoroughly and effectively.
Expanded Legal Scope and Tougher Punishments
Holding the home portfolio, Dr. Saha noted that the revised legal framework now includes previously uncovered crimes such as terrorism and mob lynching.
It also features new provisions addressing organized crime and introduces stricter penalties for crimes committed against women and children.
Shift from Colonial Legacy to Justice-Oriented System
He explained that the newly enacted laws signify a move away from colonial-era legal practices toward a more justice-centered and modern legal structure.
The updated system incorporates advanced technology in both police investigations and court processes to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Review Meeting with Union Home Minister
Dr. Saha recalled that on March 16, 2025, a review meeting was held in Guwahati with Home Minister Amit Shah and representatives from all eight northeastern states to assess the preparedness for implementing the new laws.
During the meeting, Tripura’s shortcomings were addressed, and the state received necessary directives to ensure full compliance.
Victim-Centric and Timely Justice System
According to the Chief Minister, the new legal framework is structured to prioritize victim welfare and ensure timely resolution of cases. It also emphasizes a technology-driven approach and streamlined documentation processes.
Within 14 days, both victims and the accused must receive essential documents such as FIRs, police reports, and recorded statements or confessions.
Defined Rights and Real-Time Legal Response
Dr. Saha added that the rights of both victims and the accused have been clearly specified in the new laws.
He underlined the importance of ongoing discussions on evidence collection methods, source identification, and other investigative practices to support the timely dispensation of justice.
Stable Law and Order Situation in Tripura
The Chief Minister stated that Tripura currently enjoys a stable law and order situation, and the state government remains committed to strengthening it further.
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He concluded by mentioning that the workshop also featured deliberations on various aspects of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. (Edited)
