The New Nyaya Sanhita Mechanisms for Quick Justice Delivery

The Nyaya Sanhita, a comprehensive legislative reform, aims to expedite the justice process in India, ensuring quicker and fairer resolution of cases. The law prioritizes the completion of crucial stages of investigation and trial within specific time frames. With a focus on expediting justice for women, children, and other marginalized sections of society, the Nyaya Sanhita introduces mechanisms that tackle delays in the judicial system. These reforms aim to restore public confidence in the legal system, reduce case backlogs, and deliver justice in a timely manner.

Key Mechanisms of the Nyaya Sanhita for Quick Justice Delivery

1. Faster and Fair Resolution of Cases

• The new Nyaya Sanhita mandates strict time limits for various stages of investigation and trial.
• Preliminary Enquiry: Must be completed within 14 days.
• Further Investigation: To be completed within 90 days.
• Supply of Documents to Victim and Accused: Within 14 days.
• Commitment of Case for Trial: Within 90 days.
• Filing of Discharge Applications: Within 60 days.
• Framing of Charges: Within 60 days.
• Pronouncement of Judgment: Within 45 days.
• Filing of Mercy Petitions: 30 days before the Governor and 60 days before the President.
• These timeframes aim to ensure that cases progress without unnecessary delays, promoting swift justice.

2. Fast-Track Investigations

• The law prioritizes investigations, especially for sensitive cases such as those involving women and children.
• Investigation for Offenses Against Women and Children: Must be completed within two months of recording the information.
• This ensures that justice for vulnerable sections of society is not delayed, addressing pressing concerns about their safety and rights.

3. Limited Adjournments in Courts

• To curb delays in the courtroom, the Nyaya Sanhita limits adjournments.
• A maximum of two adjournments will be allowed per case.
• This mechanism ensures that cases do not get prolonged unnecessarily and prevents the legal system from becoming a vehicle for delay tactics.

4. Establishment of Time-Bound Procedures

• Time limits are applied to various stages, including,
• Preliminary Enquiry: 14 days
• Further Investigation: 90 days
• Supply of Documents: 14 days
• Trial Commitment: 90 days
• Discharge Applications: 60 days
• Charge Framing: 60 days
• Judgment Pronouncement: 45 days
• Mercy Petitions Filing: 30 days (Governor), 60 days (President)