Has the Tripura Government Launched a Witness Protection Scheme for Witnesses' Safety?

Agartala, July 20 (NationPress) Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha announced on Sunday that the state has rolled out a Witness Protection Scheme aimed at safeguarding the interests and ensuring the cooperation of witnesses.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the state has also enacted three new criminal laws — Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023.

These laws are set to be operational from July 1, 2024, and are designed to expedite justice for victims, Saha stated while addressing a workshop on investigation and prosecution under the new criminal laws and the NDPS Act at Pragna Bhavan.

“Tripura has initiated a Witness Protection Scheme to foster the safety and cooperation of witnesses. Due to social stigma, obtaining support from witnesses has been challenging. However, we aim to offer the needed assistance through this scheme. Successful implementation of the new laws requires collaboration among all stakeholders for the benefit of the populace,” he added. Saha, who oversees the home portfolio, mentioned that the new legislation includes offenses like terrorism and mob lynching, which were previously unaddressed.

“Moreover, provisions have been introduced for organized crime, along with harsher penalties for crimes against women and children.” These laws are intended to replace outdated colonial punishments with a more justice-focused approach, incorporating technological advancements in police investigations and court processes, he emphasized.

The Chief Minister revealed that on March 16, 2025, a meeting was convened in Guwahati under Amit Shah's chairmanship to assess the preparation and execution of these three new criminal laws across all eight northeastern states.

“We identified some shortcomings, which were discussed, and we have received guidance from the authorities. These new criminal laws represent a crucial move towards establishing a citizen-centric, more accessible, and effective justice system. The laws embody a victim-friendly, technology-driven, and timely approach to justice delivery,” Saha stated.

He added that both victims and defendants must receive pertinent documents, such as copies of the FIR, police reports, statements, and confessions, within 14 days. Saha emphasized that these three new laws would greatly benefit the public.

“The rights of both victims and the accused have been distinctly outlined. The new laws are crafted to address issues in real time. There needs to be dialogue on how to collect evidence, identify sources, and other relevant aspects,” he remarked.

He noted that law and order in the state is currently in good condition and the government is striving for further improvement. The Chief Minister mentioned that discussions also took place regarding the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.