New Laws, New Cases: First FIRs Filed Under India’s Controversial Criminal Laws

The Indian police have registered the first FIRs (First Information Reports) under three new criminal laws that have been the subject of much debate and controversy since their implementation.

These laws, the Special Criminal Courts Act, the Prohibition of Mob Lynching Act, and the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, were passed in 2020 and 2021, aimed at strengthening the legal framework against serious crimes like mob lynching, terrorism, and organized crime.

Here’s a breakdown of the first cases registered under each law:

1. Special Criminal Courts Act:

• The first FIR was filed in Uttar Pradesh against a group of individuals allegedly involved in a case of rioting and arson. This Act empowers the government to establish special courts for faster trial of serious crimes.

2. Prohibition of Mob Lynching Act:

• The initial FIR was registered in Jharkhand against a mob that allegedly lynched a man suspected of theft. This law criminalizes mob lynching and provides for stringent punishment for the perpetrators.

3. Criminal Law (Amendment) Act:

• The first case under this Act was registered in Delhi against individuals involved in an organized crime syndicate. This law introduces provisions to combat organized crime and strengthen the anti-money laundering laws.

These initial cases highlight the immediate application of the new laws in real-life scenarios. While the impact of these laws on crime rates and the justice system remains to be seen, they signal a significant shift in India’s legal landscape.

It’s important to note that these laws have been met with mixed reactions. Some argue they are necessary for strengthening law enforcement and deterring crime, while others criticize them for potentially leading to abuse of power and infringement of individual rights.

The future application and interpretation of these laws will be closely watched by legal experts and the public alike. The first cases registered under these new laws set the stage for ongoing debate and legal challenges.

Keywords: FIR, Special Criminal Courts Act, Prohibition of Mob Lynching Act, Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, mob lynching, organized crime, India, new laws, law enforcement, justice system.