New Delhi, Jan 17 (UNI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday chaired a review meeting in presence of Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Mohan Yadav here to assess the implementation of three new criminal laws in the state.
The meeting reviewed the implementation and current status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in Madhya Pradesh, an official statement said.
During the meeting, Shah noted that the essence of the three new criminal laws lies in the provision of delivering justice within three years, from the filing of an FIR till the verdict comes from the Supreme Court.
Appreciating the efforts made so far by the MP government in implementing the new criminal laws, the Home Minister emphasised the need for their 100 percent implementation in the state at the earliest.
He mentioned that before registering cases under sections related to terrorism and organised crime, senior police officials should examine whether the case qualifies for the application of those sections.
Shah emphasised that any misuse of these legal provisions would undermine the sanctity of the new criminal laws.
The Minister stressed on the need for continuous monitoring of conversion of 'Zero FIRs' into regular FIRs.
Shah also stressed upon ensuring the availability of more than one forensic science mobile van in every district. Additionally, he underlined the importance of constructing an adequate number of cubicles in hospitals and jails to facilitate evidence recording through video conferencing.
The Minister stated that in cases related to national security, Trial in Absentia should be initiated against fugitives who have been absconding from the country for a long time.
He mentioned that the Indian Civil Security Code includes provisions for Trial in Absentia, enabling action against such fugitive offenders. He also urged the state government to ensure that funds allocated under ICJS (Inter-operable Criminal Justice System) are utilised strictly in accordance with the standards set by the Government of India.
Shah emphasised the recruitment of officers with expertise in forensic science and suggested that the Madhya Pradesh government should sign an MoU with the National Forensic Science University for this purpose.
On the provisions for electronic evidence in the new laws, the Home Minister stated that the state’s Home and Health Departments should hold meetings to ensure hospitals provide post-mortem and other medical reports electronically.
He stressed on the need for a robust legal aid system to ensure justice for the underprivileged and stressed the importance of providing the necessary training for this purpose.
Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police from Madhya Pradesh, Director General of BPR&D, the Director General of NCRB, and others attended the meeting.
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