IIPA J&K & Jammu Admin conduct capacity-building workshop on New Criminal Laws

Jammu, June 28: The Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA), J&K Regional Branch, in collaboration with the district administration Jammu, Saturday organised a one-day training programme on “New Criminal Laws in Jammu and Kashmir”. The initiative aimed to equip key government functionaries with knowledge of the recently enacted legal reforms—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA).
According to a statement issued to Rising Kashmir by IIPA, Irshad Hussain Rather, SP Headquarters Jammu, led the first technical session on new provisions under the reformed criminal laws. His presentation outlined structural and procedural changes, including enhanced provisions to deter serious crime, citizen-friendly measures such as Zero-FIR and e-FIR, community service as a form of punishment, and the integration of digital and forensic technologies in investigations.
The second session, conducted by Anil Sharma, Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel (LADC), Jammu, focused on BNSS, emphasising the enhanced role of Executive Magistrates in maintaining public order, dealing with absconding accused, and managing disputes involving immovable property. He also elaborated on provisions related to curfews, test identification parades, and nuisance control.
Dr Ashok Bhan, Patron of IIPA J&K Regional Branch, emphasised the importance of understanding the ethos behind the legislative changes to ensure meaningful implementation. He noted that real impact would come from sensitising and empowering officers at the grassroots level. B.R. Sharma, Chairman of IIPA J&K Regional Branch, highlighted the increasing complexities of governance in an era of technological evolution. He urged public servants to proactively embrace the new legal framework to ensure smooth transition and improved justice delivery. He also acknowledged the support of Sachin Kumar Vaishya, Deputy Commissioner Jammu, for facilitating the programme
the workshop was attended by a wide spectrum of officers deputed by the District Administration, including Assistant Commissioners, SDMs, Tehsildars, Naib Tehsildars, BDOs, and NGO representatives. Senior IIPA members present included Kuldeep Khoda, Er J.B.S. Johar, Dr C.M. Seth, and Vikrant Kuthiala.