On 21-1-2026, the Government of Maharashtra notified the Maharashtra Audio-Video Electronic Means Rules, 2026, introducing technological reform into the criminal justice system.
Key Points:
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These Rules are formulated under the Section 2(1) of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (‘BNSS’) aiming to regulate the use of audio-video electronic means in judicial and policing processes across Maharashtra.
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Under Rule 3 term “audio-video electronic means” refers to recordings from:
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Mobile phones/tablets of authorized police officers.
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CCTV cameras (Govt., semi-govt., private) within or outside Maharashtra.
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Digital equipment like cameras, body-worn cameras, tablets, etc.
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Officers assigned to e-Shakshya, e-Summons, Nyayshruti, Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (‘CCTNS’), or Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (‘ICJS’) are recognized as authorized users.
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These audio-video electronic means will be permitted for the following:
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Video conferencing for court proceedings (witness examination, bail hearings, recording of statements).
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Identification of accused or suspects.
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Documentation of search and seizure operations.
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Collection, preservation, and transmission of electronic evidence.
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Communication between courts, police stations, and forensic labs.
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The security and encryption standards specified under the Information Technology Act, 2000 will govern all audio-video electronic means, ensuring end-to-end encryption and secure storage.
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All recordings will be preserved in a secure repository for the period defined under BNSS.
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Under Rule 6, the use of ‘audio-video electronic means’ will be supervised by an authorized officer, who will verify participant identities before proceedings begin.
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A complete record of each session will be maintained, and copies of recordings sent to the concerned Magistrate within the period specified under BNSS.