Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 20/02/2026

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (20-02-2026).

GS Mains Model Question

Paper: General Studies – III (Science & Technology | Internal Security | Governance Reforms)

Q. The replacement of colonial-era criminal laws with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) marks a significant shift in India’s criminal justice framework.

Critically examine the objectives and challenges of implementing these new criminal laws at the State level, with special reference to Assam.
(15 marks)

Model Answer

Introduction

The enactment of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) in 2023 replaced the IPC, CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act respectively, signalling a major overhaul of India’s criminal justice system. As reported in The Assam Tribune (20 February 2026), Assam has emerged as a leading State in implementing these reforms, highlighting both administrative readiness and structural challenges in transition.

Body

A. Objectives of the Reform

Decolonisation of Legal Framework
- Removal of archaic colonial provisions.
- Alignment with constitutional values and sovereignty.
Speedy Justice
- Time-bound investigation procedures under BNSS.
- Digital processes such as e-FIR and electronic summons.
Strengthening Internal Security
- Clear definition of terrorism and organized crime within BNS.
- Mandatory forensic investigation for serious offences.
Victim-Centric Approach
- Enhanced protections for women and children.
- Recognition of victims’ rights during trial.
Digital Modernisation
- Electronic records recognised as primary evidence under BSA.
- Integration with CCTNS and e-Courts systems.

B. Implementation Challenges

Capacity Constraints
- Need for extensive police, judicial, and prosecutorial training.
- Limited forensic infrastructure in many districts.
Digital Divide
- Rural areas may lack technological readiness for e-procedures.
Transitional Confusion
- Handling ongoing cases under previous laws.
- Interpretation ambiguities in newly drafted provisions.
Resource Requirements
- Upgrading laboratories, courtrooms, and digital systems.
Federal Dimension
- Law & Order being a State subject requires coordinated Centre–State efforts.

C. Assam-Specific Context

Ranked among the top States in implementation preparedness.
Active integration with digital policing platforms.
Strengthened anti-narcotics and organized crime response mechanisms.
However, remote and flood-prone districts pose logistical challenges.

D. Way Forward

Strengthen district-level forensic labs and technical manpower.
Continuous professional training and refresher modules.
Clear judicial guidelines to reduce interpretational conflicts.
Periodic review and amendment based on implementation feedback.
Community awareness to ensure public understanding of new rights and procedures.

Conclusion

The new criminal laws represent a transformative attempt to modernize and decolonize India’s justice system. While the objectives of efficiency, technological integration, and victim protection are commendable, their success depends on robust institutional capacity and sustained administrative commitment. Assam’s proactive implementation provides a promising model, but long-term effectiveness will hinge on bridging infrastructural and training gaps to ensure that reform translates into real access to justice.

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