BREAKING| Lok Sabha Passes Criminal Procedure (Identification) Bill Which Allows Collection Of Prisoners' Biometrics

The Bill proposes to allow Police collect finger impressions, palm prints impressions, footprint impressions, photographs, iris and retina scans, physical and biological samples. It also proposes collection of behavioural attributes including signatures, handwriting or any other examination referred under Section 53 or Section 53A of CrPC.

Under the present regime, the Police are permitted to take finger and footprint impressions of a limited category of convicts and non-convicted persons.

During the discussion today, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that new techniques are essential to tackle new-generation crimes. Responding to the concerns expressed by some members, the Home Minister said that the provisions will be used only in the cases of heinous crimes and corresponding clarifications will follow in the Rules. In the light of the assurances given by the Home Minister, opposition members did not press the amendments proposed by them. NK Premachandran had proposed an amendment to clarify that the giving of biometrics is obligatory only in cases of heinous offences. "The Hon'ble Minister has replied that it will be made in the Rules and based on the assurance given to the house, I am withdrawing the amendment", Premachandran said. Another MP had moved an amendment to clarify that the samples will be taken only from convicts and not from those who are detained. But he did not press the amendment as the Home Minister stated that necessary clarifications will be made in the Rules.

Following the discussion, the Bill was passed in a voice vote.

The record of measurements shall be retained for a period of 75 years from the date of collection.

It further provides that any resistance to taking of measurements will be an offence under Section 186 (obstructing public servant) of IPC, attracting a jail term of three months or fine up to Rs 500 or both.

The government clarified that such persons, who are not convicted or arrested for crime against women or children or those who are in custody for an offence punishable with imprisonment for a period less than seven years, can deny permission to give their biological samples.

Click Here To Read/Download The Bill