The Sawantwadi police in Sindhudurg district registered Maharashtra’s first FIR under the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS)- New Criminal Law on Monday. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the milestone in the state assembly, though he did not provide specifics about the case.
The BNS, along with the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA)- New Criminal Law, came into effect on the same day, marking a historic overhaul of India’s criminal justice system by replacing the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively. Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio, stated that the first FIR under the new laws was filed at 2:19 a.m. at the Sawantwadi police station.
In addition to this legislative update, Fadnavis highlighted two landmark appointments in Maharashtra’s administration. Sujata Saunik has become the first woman to serve as the state’s chief secretary, a role she assumed on Sunday. Saunik, an IAS officer from the 1987 batch, makes history in the state’s 64-year legacy. Furthermore, Rashmi Shukla took charge as the first woman Director General of Police (DGP) in Maharashtra in January this year.
Fadnavis also mentioned that the state legislature would pass a congratulatory motion to honor the Indian cricket team for their victorious campaign in the T20 World Cup, adding a note of celebration to the session.
These announcements underscore a period of significant change and progress in Maharashtra, both in terms of legal reforms and the advancement of women in high-ranking positions.