The Wokha District Bar Association held a sensitization program on the new criminal laws on Saturday at a resort in Wokha with District Legal Services Authority Chairman Longshithung Ezung and Advocate Limhathung Ezung as the resource persons.

The program was aimed to provide insights into the new criminal laws – the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, and the Bharatiya Sakhsya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023. The resource persons focused on the defense counsel’s approach to procedural laws, the rights of accused persons, and the art of trial.

Longshithung Ezung expressed his appreciation for the initiative, noting that such sensitization programs are rarely conducted for lawyers and urged the attendees to pursue their profession not merely for financial gain but to genuinely assist the court in the proper administration of justice.

Speaking on the new laws, he mentioned that while there are no drastic changes from the laws they have replaced, there are revisions and additions in various sections. He acknowledged the potential challenges, particularly the transition phase where cases registered before 1st July 2024 will follow the old laws, while those filed after that date will rely on the new ones. He provided a detailed explanation of the new bills and encouraged the lawyers to become well-versed in the updated laws.

Advocate Limhathung Ezung briefed the lawyers on the newly added definitions and changes in the law. He also highlighted on the introduction of community service as a form of rehabilitation and a punishment option for first-time offenders. He explained that offenses such as public servants unlawfully engaging in trade, attempted suicide, theft under five thousand rupees with recovery, public misconduct by a drunken person, and defamation could result in community service penalties. He also discussed the concept of abetment of offenses under the new legal provisions.

It was also informed during the event that as of now there are 53 registered lawyers under the Wokha District Bar Association.

The event was chaired by Advocate Orenvungo Humtsoe, a song presented by Advocate Zujanbeni Tsanglao while Advocate Zuchumpeni Ngullie delivered the vote of thanks.