A Study On Procedural Reforms And Judicial Modernization With Special Reference To Tamil Nadu Criminal Procedure Rules, 2025
- IJLLR Journal
- Dec 5, 2025
- 2 min read
Dr. Gowthaman N, Associate Professor, (Crime and Tort) in Chennai Dr Ambedkar Law College, Pudupakkam.
ABSTRACT
The Tamil Nadu Criminal Procedural Rules, 2025 mark a transformative shift in the administration of criminal justice, introducing a modernized procedural framework that responds to evolving legal, technological, and societal needs. Replacing outdated procedural conventions, the 2025 Rules aim to create a more transparent, efficient, and uniform system across all criminal courts in Tamil Nadu. These reforms align with national developments under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), ensuring procedural harmony and strengthening constitutional mandates under Articles 14 and 21 of Indian Constitution. Central point to the 2025 Rules is the integration of digital systems e-filing, digital signatures, QR- based authentication, standardized audio-video recording, and digital preservation of records which enhances accountability and reduces procedural delays. The Rules also adopt a victim-centric approach, incorporating safeguards such as structured timelines, confidential handling of sensitive information, improved witness-protection measures, and systematic tracking of case progress. These provisions collectively aim to minimize trauma, enforce procedural fairness, and uphold the rights of both victims and the accused. Furthermore, the 2025 Rules emphasize timely completion of investigations and trials, thereby addressing longstanding systemic issues such as adjournment misuse, non-production of records, and uneven district-level implementation. However, the success of these Rules depends heavily on infrastructure preparedness, digital literacy among stakeholders, and supportive administrative mechanisms. While the reforms hold significant promise, their practical effectiveness will require coordinated efforts between the judiciary, police, prosecution, and court administration. This paper evaluates the evolution, structure, impact, and policy implications of the 2025 Rules, demonstrating how Tamil Nadu’s updated procedural framework serves as a modern, rights-oriented, and technology-driven model for criminal justice reform in India.
Keywords: Tamil Nadu Criminal Procedural Rules 2025, BNSS, Judicial Reform, Digital Justice, Victim-Centric Process.
