Community Service As A Punishment Under The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: A Step Towards Reformative Justice?
- IJLLR Journal
- Jul 12
- 1 min read
Gauri Joshi, LL.B., Bharati Vidyapeeth’s Institute of Management and Research (BVIMR), New Delhi
Harsh Verma, LL.B., Bharati Vidyapeeth’s Institute of Management and Research (BVIMR), New Delhi
ABSTRACT
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS) introduces community service as an alternative form of punishment, reflecting a shift towards a more reformative approach in India's criminal justice system. This paper examines the concept, objectives, and legal framework of community service under the BNS and evaluates its role in promoting offender rehabilitation while reducing reliance on imprisonment for minor offences. It also discusses the challenges in implementing this punishment and suggests measures for its effective application. The study concludes that community service has the potential to strengthen reformative justice, provided it is supported by clear legal guidelines and efficient implementation.
Keywords: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS); Community Service; Reformative Justice; Criminal Justice System; Rehabilitation; Alternative Punishment; Sentencing Policy.
