Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory has enacted three pivotal criminal laws, aimed at modernizing the legal framework and enhancing the efficiency of its judicial process.

The new laws—the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)—replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively.

Police in the UT implemented the new laws, registering the first FIRs under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Police stations in Srinagar, Anantnag, Kulgam, Doda, and Baramulla were among the first to register cases, marking a notable milestone in the region’s legal enforcement framework.

An official at the Chanapora police station, under the jurisdiction of the Sadder subdivision, confirmed the registration of an FIR bearing number 22/2024. “The case has been registered under sections 135-1(b) and 303(2) BNS of the new law, marking a notable milestone in the region’s legal enforcement framework,” the official stated.

Similarly, Police Station Bijbehara in Anantnag registered FIR number 143/2024 under Section 125(a) and 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023.

Baramulla Police also registered a case at Police Station Kreeri under new criminal provisions.

In Kulgam district of south Kashmir, J&K Police registered a case at Police station Yaripora.

Police said , a written complaint was received at Police Station Yaripora through Rifat Ara stating therein that one person Mohamad Umer, and others attacked her and beaten her ruthlessly resulting in injuries to her.

“Regarding the incident, a case vide FIR No 47/2024 U/S 74, 115(2) BNS stands registered at the Police Station and an investigation has been taken up,” Police said

From now on, all FIRs will be filed under the provisions of BNS. However, cases registered before July 1 will continue to be tried under IPC (Indian Penal Code), CRPC (Criminal Procedure Code), and Indian Evidence Act until their Final disposal.