Srinagar, Oct 25 : In a first-of-its-kind initiative, J&K Police in collaboration with the J&K Prosecution Department organised a one-day joint training programme on Trial in Absentia under Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 at Police Auditorium, Police Headquarters, Srinagar.

The programme aimed at strengthening cooperation between two key stakeholders of the Criminal Justice System.
The programme was inaugurated by DIG Crime Abdul Qayoom Thakoo (IPS), while Director of Prosecution, Kashmir, Qazi Abdul Qayoom attended as the Guest of Honour. All Deputy Directors of Prosecution from Kashmir region were present, along with prosecuting officers and police personnel from SIA, Crime Branch and various police stations of Kashmir Zone.
The programme was divided into three sessions covering the legal framework for trial in absentia, proclamation proceedings under Section 84 BNSS, role of Investigating Officers, mandatory safeguards, recording of evidence, related procedural issues and penal provision under Section 209 BNS.
Key highlights of Section 356 BNSS, including statutory preconditions for conducting trials in absentia, prescribed procedure for proclaimed offenders, and safeguards to ensure fairness of proceedings were discussed in detail. The sessions also examined provisions relating to recording and appreciation of evidence, pronouncement of judgment, as well as legal consequences of absconding.
The programme emphasised strict compliance with statutory requirements and timely administration of justice while ensuring adherence to safeguards prescribed by law.
The initiative reaffirmed the commitment of J&K Police and the Prosecution Department to professional training, inter-agency coordination and effective implementation of the new criminal laws.