Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023:
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued directives to all states and Union Territories (UTs) for implementing Section 479 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023.
- Section 479 of BNSS, 2023 Provides relief to undertrial prisoners by mandating their release on bail or bond under certain conditions.
- Key Provisions:
- Subsection (1): Under trail prisoners (UTPs) who have served half the maximum sentence prescribed for the offense (except those punishable by death or life imprisonment) shall be released on bail. For first-time offenders, UTPs serving one-third of the maximum sentence are eligible for release on bond.
- Subsection (3): Makes it mandatory for prison superintendents to file applications in the concerned court for the release of eligible prisoners.
- Superintendent of Jail Responsibility: Ensure timely application for bail or bond to the court for eligible prisoners.
