Jammu: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially notified the use of audio and video electronic recordings as admissible evidence under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
This move is aimed at strengthening law enforcement, ensuring transparency, and improving the efficiency of policing within the Union Territory.
According to the notification issued by the Principal Secretary to the Government, Home Department, Chandraker Bharti (IAS),recordings captured through mobile phones and tablets by authorized police officers will now be considered valid. Footage from automated CCTV cameras installed at various locations across Jammu and Kashmir will also be recognized as legitimate evidence. Additionally, digital recordings from body-worn cameras, digital video cameras, tablets, and other electronic devices used by authorized police personnel will be admissible. Any additional electronic device authorized by the Police or Home Department will also fall under this category.
The notification specifies that only police officers and officials who have been assigned ICJS (Interoperable Criminal Justice System) / CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems) IDs will be recognized as authorized personnel for handling and presenting such electronic evidence. This move aligns Jammu and Kashmir’s law enforcement system with national standards, ensuring that digital evidence plays a crucial role in crime investigation and legal proceedings.
