Navigating Legal Reform: Advocate Monika Kohli Addresses Session on New Criminal Laws At IIM Jammu

Jammu: Indian Institute of Management Jammu under the leadership of Prof. B.S. Sahay, Director, IIM Jammu organized an awareness session focusing on the three newly introduced criminal laws: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023. These laws will
replace the Indian Penal Code, 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872, respectively.
The event was held on the 1st of July 2024 at Vivekananda Hall and commenced at 6:00 PM. The event was coordinated by Kartavya Club, IIM Jammu. The awareness session commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolizing the enlightenment and empowerment that the session seeks to instill. Advocate Monika Kohli, Senior Additional Advocate General at J& K High Court, highlighted the necessity of introducing the Bhartiya code, noting that societal evolution demands laws tailored to India’s contemporary challenges. She emphasized significant reforms such as the ability to register an FIR from any location, electronic FIR registration for enhanced accessibility, and a shift towards restorative justice focusing on rehabilitation. She also stressed new mandates for timely FIR filing, charge sheet preparation, and transparency in evidence handling. She highlighted the recognition of electronic evidence as primary, provisions for trials in absentia, and the introduction of community service for minor offences, all aimed at fostering rehabilitation and community involvement in the legal process. Professor Jabir Ali, Dean Academics, IIM Jammu in his closing remarks underscored the need to move beyond a colonial mindset, emphasizing the importance of evolving with the times. He expressed genuine satisfaction that the new laws are designed to meet India’s unique needs, stressing that punishment should focus on reform rather than retribution. He mentioned that it s about assisting individuals in correcting their mistakes and reintegrating into society as better individuals. He mentioned that the new legislative act represents a significant stride in the positive direction. The event witnessed active participation from students, faculty, and community members, who engaged in meaningful discussions and raised pertinent questions about the implications of the new laws. There was vibrant interaction among the speaker, faculty, staff, and students throughout the event. Present on the occasion was Dr. Ashish Kumar, Chairperson, Student Affairs, IIM Jammu, Cmdr. Kesavan Baskkaran, CAO, IIM Jammu along with
faculty, officers, staff members and students of the Institute in large nos.
IIM Jammu and Kartavya Club extend their heartfelt gratitude to Advocate Monika Kohli for her invaluable contribution and dedication in enlightening the audience. With such interactive sessions, IIM Jammu is committed to fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.