Strengthen forensic science, case-study teaching under new criminal laws: BCI to law universities

The Bar Council of India (BCI) has directed universities and Centres of Legal Education (CLEs) to strengthen the teaching of forensic science and case-study based learning under India's new criminal law framework.

A circular to that effect was issued by the BCI on August 14. It builds on its May 2024 circular, which had asked universities to bring the three new criminal law statutes - Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) - into the curriculum from the 2024-25 academic year.

The fresh direction follows a communication from the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law and Justice. It forwarded a recommendation from the 2025 Conference of Directors General and Inspectors General of Police. The recommendation asked National Law Universities (NLUs) and other premier legal institutions to study the impact of the new criminal law framework - with focus on forensic science - and to develop case studies documenting India's forensic transition.

Universities must now teach the 3 statutes beyond their statutory text, with attention to practical application. The circular lists areas for academic emphasis - forensic science, scientific investigation, electronic and digital evidence, expert evidence, chain of custody and the use of technology in investigation and trial.

Institutions are encouraged to develop case studies, research papers, teaching modules, clinical exercises, simulations, seminars and workshops on the new laws. NLUs and other research-capable institutions have been particularly urged to carry out documented research on India's forensic transition.

None of this should dilute mandatory subjects, teaching hours, attendance or examination requirements under the Rules of Legal Education, 2008, the circular clarifies.

Case-study material must protect the confidentiality of victims, witnesses, the accused and pending proceedings, with anonymisation required where needed. Such material may be shared with government authorities or the National Forensic Sciences University, with institutional approval.

Universities must circulate the circular to every affiliated CLE, and keep records of steps taken to be furnished to the BCI when sought.