What Is BNSS Section 54?

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 - Section 54: Identification of Person Arrested

Where a person is arrested on a charge of committing an offence and his identification by any other person or persons is considered necessary for the purpose of investigation of such offence, the Court, having jurisdiction may, on the request of the officer in charge of a police station, direct the person so arrested to subject himself to identification by any person or persons in such manner as the Court may deem fit:

• Provided that, if the person identifying the person arrested is mentally or physically disabled, such process of identification shall take place under the supervision of a Judicial Magistrate who shall take appropriate steps to ensure that such person identifies the person arrested using methods that person is comfortable with.
• The identification process shall be recorded by any audio-video electronic means.

Brief Detail

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Section 54 outlines the procedures for identifying a person who has been arrested for an alleged offence. It emphasizes the necessity of identification for investigative purposes and stipulates that the Court can direct this process upon request from law enforcement. Special provisions are made for individuals who are mentally or physically disabled, ensuring their comfort and protection during the identification process, which must be recorded electronically.

Question & Answers

Q: What is the purpose of Section 54 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023?

A: It provides guidelines for the identification of a person arrested on a charge of committing an offence for investigative purposes.

Q: Who can request the identification process?

A: The officer in charge of a police station can request the identification process from the Court.

Q: What happens if the person identifying the arrested individual is disabled?

A: The identification must take place under the supervision of a Judicial Magistrate, ensuring that the disabled person is comfortable with the identification methods used.

Q: How must the identification process be documented?

A: The identification process must be recorded by any audio-video electronic means.

Example

• A suspect arrested for theft may be required to undergo an identification parade, where witnesses can confirm or deny their identity.
• If a witness is hearing impaired, a Judicial Magistrate ensures that the identification process accommodates their needs, possibly using sign language.
• The entire identification procedure is captured on video to ensure transparency and accountability.

Summary

Section 54 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 establishes the framework for the identification of arrested individuals, focusing on investigative needs while prioritizing the rights and comfort of disabled persons. The process is regulated by the Court and must be recorded for legal integrity.