CJI Calls for Investigative Focus: 'Premier Agencies Must Target National Security and Economic Offences

In a significant address at the DP Kohli Memorial Lecture 2024 on the occasion of CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) Day, Chief Justice of India (CJI) DY Chandrachud underscored the imperative for premier investigative agencies to streamline their focus toward matters of national security and economic offenses against the nation.

Addressing the gathering, CJI Chandrachud expressed concern over the broadening scope of investigative mandates, stating, "I think we have perhaps been spreading our investigative agencies too thin over the years." He stressed the necessity for agencies like the CBI to concentrate their efforts on crimes that truly imperil the security and economic well-being of the nation, amidst the backdrop of evolving criminal landscapes.

"As the years have progressed, the CBI saw a significant expansion in its jurisdiction, encompassing a broader spectrum of offenses," CJI Chandrachud remarked, highlighting the agency's evolving role beyond its traditional anti-corruption focus.

Enumerating the challenges posed by the digital age, the CJI highlighted the complexities arising from data misuse, cybercrime techniques, and jurisdictional hurdles in a globally connected world. "In light of these challenges, India must re-think its investigative framework," CJI Chandrachud asserted, advocating for structural reforms and technological upgrades within agencies like the CBI.

Proposing multi-disciplinary teams comprising law enforcement officers and domain experts, the CJI emphasized the importance of leveraging technology and innovative approaches to streamline investigations and overcome delays. Touching upon recent legislative developments, CJI Chandrachud hailed the enactment of three new criminal laws by Parliament, which aim to digitize various aspects of criminal procedure, from FIR registration to judgment delivery.

"These laws aim at digitizing various aspects of criminal procedure. This is a significant step towards modernizing the justice system," he affirmed, highlighting the legislation's potential to enhance coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in the investigative and adjudicatory processes.

Author: Anushka Taraniya

News Writer, MIT ADT University