With the notification of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)—set to replace the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (CrPC)—aspirants preparing for the Rajasthan Judicial Services (RJS) Exam 2025 must be well-versed with the comparative framework of the old and new procedural laws.
Introduction to BNSS 2023
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) was enacted to modernize and simplify the criminal procedure in India. It aims to replace the CrPC, 1973, which had its roots in colonial-era legislation. BNSS brings in technology integration, victim rights, and time-bound investigations and trials, reflecting the goals of a more efficient justice system.
Relevance for RJS 2025 Aspirants
The Rajasthan Judicial Services 2025 examination is expected to include provisions of BNSS 2023 in place of CrPC. Therefore, understanding both the continuity and the changes is crucial.
Comparative Table: CrPC vs BNSS 2023
|
Topic |
CrPC, 1973 |
BNSS, 2023 |
Key Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Total Sections |
484 |
531 |
Increase in number and restructuring |
|
Name of the Code |
Code of Criminal Procedure |
Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita |
Indianized nomenclature |
|
Zero FIR |
Not explicitly mentioned |
Explicitly codified in BNSS |
Victim-centric approach |
|
E-FIR and Electronic Mode |
No express provision |
Clear provision for e-FIR, electronic summons, and chargesheets |
Emphasis on digital procedures |
|
Time limit for investigation |
Vague in some cases |
Section 193 BNSS: 90 days to file charge sheet |
Time-bound trial mechanism |
|
Victim Rights |
Limited, no right to be heard at bail stage |
Victim has the right to be heard at bail stage (S.479 BNSS) |
Victim-centric justice |
|
Forensic Involvement |
Discretionary |
Mandatory in heinous offences (S. 176 BNSS) |
Ensures better evidence collection |
|
Cognizance of offences |
Under S.190 CrPC |
Section 210 BNSS |
Number changed but substance similar |
|
Arrest Procedures |
Section 41 CrPC |
Section 35 BNSS |
Redrafted with added safeguards |
|
Plea Bargaining |
Chapter XXIA |
Retained with minor tweaks |
Mostly similar |
|
Summary Trials |
Chapter XXI |
Chapter XXIV BNSS |
Section numbers updated |
|
Proclamation & Attachment |
S. 82-83 CrPC |
S. 84-85 BNSS |
Numbering and language revised |
|
Maintenance of Wives/Children/Parents |
Section 125 CrPC |
Section 144 BNSS |
Same provision, renumbered |
Notable Additions in BNSS 2023
- Mandatory use of forensic teams for crimes punishable with more than 7 years.
- Introduction of community service as a form of punishment.
- Electronic recording of statements, warrants, and processes.
- Time-bound disposal of bail applications (within 7 days).
- Summons via electronic means (email, SMS, etc.) recognized.
Continuity: What Remains Same
- Trial procedures such as Sessions Trial, Warrant Cases, Summons Cases continue with minor linguistic updates.
- Hierarchy of courts, appeal/revision structures, and bail classification (bailable/non-bailable) are retained.
- CrPC jurisprudence and case laws will still be relevant to interpret similar provisions under BNSS.
Preparation for RJS 2025 (BNSS vs CrPC)
Read BNSS with a Comparative Lens
Use bare act comparison charts to match old section numbers with the new ones.
Revise Important Procedural Themes
Focus on arrest, bail, investigation, trial stages, and appeals — both in BNSS and CrPC.
Case Law Continuity
Many judgments under CrPC will still apply to BNSS unless overruled.
Practice Mock Questions
Attempt MCQs and Mains questions based on new BNSS sections — especially changes in digital procedure, victim rights, and trial timelines.
Conclusion
The shift from CrPC to BNSS 2023 reflects India’s move toward a citizen-centric, technology-integrated justice system. For RJS 2025 aspirants, this comparative understanding is not just academic—it is essential for scoring well in both Prelims and Mains.
Stay updated with changes, align your preparation with the BNSS 2023 structure, and revise the CrPC where relevant. The Rajasthan Judicial Services Exam is evolving—and so must your strategy.
