Maharashtra's Conviction Rate Hits 53%, New Laws May Boost It to 90%: Devendra Fadnavis
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Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a significant improvement in the state's conviction rate, which has jumped from 9% in 2013 to 53% today. Fadnavis believes that the newly-introduced Central criminal laws have the potential to take the conviction rate up to 90%. The new laws, which include the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, were implemented to guarantee time-bound justice for victims by legally recognizing digital and electronic evidence. The new laws allow for the registration of FIRs at any police station in the state and provide for e-FIRs, making it more difficult for offenders to evade action by fleeing to other states. Fadnavis also highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen policing, including the issuance of 14 government resolutions to reform policing, update recruitment rules, and undertake major restructuring. Over 50,000 police posts have been filled in recent years. In addition, Fadnavis showcased the state's efforts to combat cyberbullying, with more than 60 girls being rescued through the most advanced cyber lab in the country. Mobile forensic vans have also helped reduce pendency and ensure transparent examination of evidence. The Chief Minister has directed officials to organize similar exhibitions at the divisional and district levels to raise awareness about the new laws and their benefits. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also praised the new laws, saying they will help secure stronger convictions and ensure strict punishment for those with 'perverse and harmful mindsets'.
