Legal Awareness in Schools: Delhi’s Initiative to Educate Students on Modern Crimes

New Criminal Laws Replace Colonial-Era Legislation in India to Make Students Aware About their Rights

It is important to be aware of our rights and obligations so we can protect ourselves and others from potential harm. As criminal activities are on the rise, students need to learn about new criminal laws to build legal awareness and responsibility from an early age. The Delhi government has launched special modules on three new criminal laws aimed at enhancing legal awareness among senior secondary students. Developed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), these modules focus on the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam for students in Classes 11 and 12.

By including these special NCERT modules in the curriculum, students will better understand modern crimes like cyber offenses, organized crimes as well as the consequences of breaking the law. Awareness about their rights can help them make informed choices, avoid illegal activities, and contribute in a better way to society. Additionally, learning about the law encourages critical thinking and ethical reasoning, giving students the skills they need to tackle social issues and advocate for justice in their communities.

According to an official circular, the primary objective of this initiative is to foster a sense of responsibility among students and educators, particularly regarding issues related to emotional and physical violence, ensuring that they are equipped to address these matters effectively. All government, government-aided, and unaided private schools under the Directorate of Education (DoE) have been instructed to share these modules with teachers, students, and parents so that they guide the students better about their rights.

The three new criminal laws, which took effect on July 1, 2024, have introduced significant reforms to India's criminal justice system. These laws replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC) of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, which have been in place since the British era.

Editor's Note:

To enhance legal awareness among youth, the Delhi government has introduced special modules on three new criminal laws for senior secondary students. This initiative aims to educate students about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to recognize and address injustices in society. By integrating these modules into the curriculum, students will gain a deeper understanding of modern crimes and develop critical thinking skills necessary for advocating justice in their communities.

Skoobuzz applauds the Delhi government's initiative to implement these crucial modules in the curriculum which not only impart legal knowledge but also empower students to stand up against injustice and become more responsible citizens. This step is essential in fostering a generation that is informed, aware, and ready to contribute positively to society.