Delhi Notifies BNSS (Service of Summons and Warrants) Rules, 2025

Introduction

The Home Department of the NCT of Delhi has officially notified the Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons and Warrants) Rules, 2025, under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. These rules aim to modernize and digitize the process of serving summons and warrants, ensuring greater efficiency, transparency, and accessibility across the judicial system in Delhi.

Scope and Applicability

The rules:

  • Extend to all District Courts within the NCT of Delhi.

  • Came into effect immediately upon publication in the Delhi Gazette.

  • Are framed under Section 64(1) and Section 530 of BNSS, 2023, empowering state authorities to make procedural rules for service of summons and warrants.

Key Definitions

Some crucial definitions under the rules include:

  • CCTNS (Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems): Used by Delhi Police for execution and data collection.

  • CIS (Case Information System): Used by the judiciary for managing case-related data.

  • Electronic Communication: Includes summons/warrants issued via email, WhatsApp, or instant messaging platforms.

  • eSign: Digital authentication of summons/warrants with legal validity under the IT Act, 2000.

  • Process: Refers to summons and warrants, both bailable and non-bailable.

Generation of Process in Digital Mode

  • Courts will generate summons and warrants electronically through CIS.

  • Every summons/warrant will bear the eSign of the Presiding Officer and an image of the court’s seal.

  • Soft copies of charge-sheets, complaints, or supporting documents may accompany the summons.

  • Encryption will be mandatory to ensure data security.

Register of Details and Verification

  • Police stations must maintain an electronic register of individuals likely to be served summons/warrants.

  • Individuals may be required to furnish personal details, including addresses, emails, and mobile numbers.

  • Verified details will be stored in CCTNS and shared monthly with concerned courts.

Service of Summons Through Digital Platforms

  • Summons can be served through email, WhatsApp, or instant messaging services.

  • Delivery will be deemed complete if:

    • Email acknowledgment is received, or

    • Messaging apps show a delivery/read receipt (screenshots/photos to be attached in the service report).

  • If electronic details are unavailable, service will revert to traditional physical delivery through police officers or court staff.

Protection of Victims and Witnesses

  • Victim and witness details (emails, phone numbers, messaging IDs) will not be shared with the accused.

  • In sensitive cases (e.g., crimes against women, children, or under POCSO Act), strict confidentiality will be maintained.

Establishment of Electronic Summons Delivery Centres

  • Every police station in Delhi will set up a Summons Delivery Centre with the necessary infrastructure.

  • These centres will coordinate electronic service of summons, ensuring accountability.

Service and Execution of Warrants

  • Warrants will also be issued in electronic form, printed out for execution.

  • Police officers must take acknowledgment or photographs during service, forming part of the official report.

  • Reports of service/non-service will be sent back to courts electronically via CCTNS.

Legal Presumptions and Validity

  • Summons/warrants sent electronically are deemed legally valid and original.

  • Courts retain overriding powers to order alternative service methods under the BNSS or any other applicable law.

Repeal and Savings

  • These rules replace the earlier Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons) Rules, 2025.

  • However, any actions already taken under the old rules remain valid.

Conclusion

The Delhi BNSS (Service of Summons and Warrants) Rules, 2025 mark a significant leap toward a digital-first judiciary. By integrating CCTNS, CIS, and e-communication platforms, the rules ensure faster, more secure, and transparent judicial processes. They also safeguard victims and witnesses, making the system more people-centric.

This reform aligns with India’s broader push for judicial digitization and e-governance, potentially serving as a model for other states.


Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

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