FIRDOUS PARRAY
SHOPIAN, June 11: In a landmark judgment under the newly-enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court in Shopian has taken a reformative approach by sentencing two individuals convicted of theft to community service, rather than jail time.
The two accused, arrested in connection with FIR No. 69/2024 under Section 303(2) of the BNS at Police Station Zainapora, were found guilty of stealing property valued at ₹5,000 on July 31, 2024.
After the completion of legal proceedings, the court determined that instead of conventional punishment, the duo would benefit more from a penalty that promotes civic sense and accountability. Accordingly, the court directed them to serve community service by cleaning premises at the District Hospital Shopian for two days and two nights.
In its judgment, the court underscored that this form of punishment not only acts as a deterrent for minor crimes but also instills a sense of civic responsibility and contributes positively to the community. The court termed the move as a step toward encouraging social reform and accountability for petty offences.
The Shopian Police have welcomed the court’s decision, describing it as a progressive step toward maintaining law and order through non-custodial, community-based corrections.
Community service has recently been introduced as a form of punishment under India’s revamped criminal justice system, aiming to humanize justice delivery and focus on rehabilitation over retribution—especially in cases involving minor infractions.
