The Union Minister underlined the government’s responsibility to provide legal aid to underprivileged citizens, advocating for a robust legal assistance framework
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has proposed initiating trials in absentia for fugitives evading prosecution in national security cases. Speaking at a meeting to review the implementation of the new criminal laws with Madhya Pradesh government officials, Shah emphasised the need for decisive action against absconding offenders and robust reforms to expedite justice delivery.
“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,” Shah remarked. He highlighted that the Indian civil security code incorporates provisions allowing such trials, enabling the legal system to hold fugitive offenders accountable even in their absence.
Shah also urged Madhya Pradesh authorities to ensure that funds allocated under the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) are utilised effectively and in alignment with the standards set by the central government. He stressed the importance of adhering to the benchmarks for an efficient and transparent criminal justice system.
Justice For Underserved
The Union Minister underlined the government’s responsibility to provide legal aid to underprivileged citizens, advocating for a robust legal assistance framework. “Proper legal representation for the poor must be ensured, and necessary training should be provided for this purpose,” he stated.
Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering justice within three years—from the filing of the FIR to the final Supreme Court verdict. He described this goal as the cornerstone of the three new criminal laws introduced by the Narendra Modi government.
Technology For Transparency
Highlighting the role of technology in modern policing, Shah proposed an electronic dashboard system where details of detained individuals, seizure lists, and cases sent to courts could be accessed. He directed the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) to sensitise police personnel on prioritising timely justice delivery.
Shah’s visit to Madhya Pradesh comes amid nationwide discussions on the efficacy and implementation of the newly introduced criminal legislation aimed at streamlining legal processes and reinforcing national security mechanisms.