Agartala, December 11, 2025: The North Eastern region recorded a total of 77,105 cases under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) between 1 July 2024 and 30 November 2025, reflecting significant early adoption of the new criminal law framework that seeks to expedite judicial proceedings. Assam accounted for the highest number with 56,826 cases, followed by Tripura (4,142), Meghalaya (4,853), Arunachal Pradesh (3,468), Manipur (3,094), Mizoram (2,963), Nagaland (1,103) and Sikkim (656). The data was shared in the Rajya Sabha by Minister of State for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the new criminal laws introduce a structured timeline for key stages of investigation and trial to ensure quicker and fairer case resolution. Provisions mandate completion of preliminary enquiry within 14 days, further investigation within 90 days, supply of documents to both victim and accused within 14 days, and commitment of cases for trial within 90 days. Time-bound procedures also include filing of discharge applications within 60 days, framing of charges within 60 days, pronouncement of judgment within 45 days, and submission of mercy petitions—30 days before the Governor and 60 days before the President.

To strengthen protections for women and children, investigations involving such offences must be completed within two months from the date of reporting.

The framework also restricts the number of adjournments to a maximum of two, aiming to curb unnecessary delays.

In a major technological push, applications such as e-Summons, e-Sakshya, and Nyaya-Shruti (VC) have been introduced to enhance transparency and efficiency. These tools enable electronic issuance of summons, scientific handling of digital evidence, and virtual appearances of witnesses and accused persons through video conferencing.

The Ministry stated that these reforms collectively target a more responsive, transparent, and time-bound justice delivery system.