Justice Y Longkumer of the Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench, has urged panel lawyers in Nagaland to rise to the occasion and help bridge the gap between legal reforms and public understanding, as India enters a new era with sweeping changes to its criminal laws. Speaking at a one-day orientation programme for Legal Aid Defense Counsel System (LADCS) lawyers, held at Hotel Japfü in Kohima on Wednesday, Justice Longkumer said the introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) marks a fundamental shift in India’s criminal justice system. These laws replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively.
“These reforms are not cosmetic—they are a complete reimagining of how justice should function in a modern democracy,” she stated. She stressed that panel lawyers must go beyond the courtroom and serve as educators, advisors, and counsellors for the community, especially the marginalized who rely heavily on legal aid services. Justice Longkumer pointed out that panel lawyers are often the first line of legal assistance for underprivileged citizens. In this time of transition, she said, their role becomes even more crucial in ensuring that legal aid remains effective and accessible. The orientation programme, organized by the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA), aimed to equip legal aid lawyers with knowledge of the new laws and their implications. The event was chaired by NSLSA Retainer Lawyer Apila Sangtam, and began with a welcome address by NSLSA Member Secretary Neiko Akami, who stressed the need for readiness and clarity among legal professionals.
Justice Longkumer encouraged participants to embrace the structural and philosophical changes in the new codes. She highlighted key aspects such as the reclassification of offences, community service as a form of sentencing, enhanced compensation for victims, time-bound investigations, and a greater focus on digital evidence. “Unlearning the IPC and learning the new codes is a challenge—but also an opportunity to shape legal practice in a way that is more compassionate, timely, and aligned with constitutional values,” she said. She also warned that legal confusion could harm clients, especially those relying on legal aid. “Your clients cannot afford confusion or delay. You must adapt quickly, with commitment and professionalism,” she urged, adding that deeper engagement with the spirit behind the reforms is essential.
