‘Robust digital safeguards must before legal proceedings’

A Parliamentary committee, which scrutinised three proposed criminal laws, has commended the initiative to enhance technology usage in legal proceedings. However, the panel, led by BJP MP Brij Lal, stressed that the adoption of electronic means for communication and trials should proceed only after establishing robust safeguards.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs acknowledged the positive step of enabling online or electronic First Information Report (FIR) registration but suggested that it should be allowed only through modes specified by the state.
The committee noted the provision in the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS-2023) for trials in electronic mode, emphasizing the increased utilization of technology in legal proceedings. Clause 532 of the BNSS-2023 allows for electronic mode trials using devices like mobiles, computers, or telephones.
While recognizing the advantages of increased technological integration, the committee raised concerns about potential manipulation and misuse. It highlighted worries about data security and unauthorized access in the collection and storage of electronic evidence.
The committee recommended that the adoption of electronic means for communication and trials proceed only after establishing robust safeguards for secure usage and authentication of electronically available data. This, the committee asserted, would ensure the integrity of the justice system.
Addressing the challenges posed by allowing electronic communication for FIR registration, the committee stated that it could create logistical and technical difficulties for law enforcement.