Victim Compensation Schemes In India
Shivam Bhuwania, B.B.A LL.B. (H), Amity Law School, Patna
ABSTRACT
Victim compensation is an important part of the criminal justice system and victims' rights. Traditionally, the justice system primarily focuses on punishing the offender, but less importance was given to the suffering experienced by the victim and their loss. Victims may have suffered mental trauma, financial loss, medical expenses, and loss of life also. Providing compensation to victims does not completely reverse the consequences of the offence but may provide assistance for recovery and rehabilitation. The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 has strengthened the legal framework for victim compensation, mainly through sections 395 and 396, along with section 397, which provides immediate medical treatment to victims. The article covers the concept and legal framework of victim compensation in India and the international framework for providing compensation to victims, the role of state and district legal service authorities in India, and the major issues and challenges faced in implementing victim compensation schemes. The article also addresses the timely implementation, uniformity, simplified process and proper coordination are vital to make the victim compensation scheme an effective measure to restore the condition of victims.
Keywords: Victim compensation, Victim-centric criminal justice system, Rehabilitation, State and district legal service authority, Compensation schemes.
