Drug trafficker brought before court in handcuffs

Starting July 1, 2024, a new law granted police the authority to use handcuffs on individuals accused of serious and habitual crimes when presenting them in court. This provision applies to offences such as terrorism, organised crime, drug trafficking, murder, rape, human trafficking and illegal weapons possession.

In line with this law, Ding police on Friday presented Jaswant Singh, a resident of Sangha village, Punjab, in court with handcuffs. He had been arrested in Bhavdin village, Sirsa, with 5 kg and 172 gm of opium. This move aligns with the government’s efforts to provide law enforcement with additional tools to manage high-risk criminals.

Superintendent of Police Vikrant Bhushan stated that the new law allows police officers to exercise discretion in using handcuffs based on the nature and gravity of the crime. If an accused is a habitual offender, has escaped custody in the past, or is involved in serious crimes, officers are now permitted to handcuff them during arrest or court appearances.

He further directed police station chiefs to ensure all officers are well-informed about the provisions of the new law. Section 43(3) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) lays out the legal framework for using handcuffs, ensuring that restraints are applied in compliance with procedural standards.

The new measure aims to enhance security, prevent escapes and deter criminal activity, reinforcing law enforcement’s ability to handle offenders effectively.