The Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita has replaced the  Indian Penal Code. It is a comprehensive legislative initiative which aims at overhauling the colonial age criminal laws which were prevalent in India.  The primary objectives of BNSS are as follows:

1. Modernization of laws:  As already mentioned, the criminal laws which were governing India were that of colonial ear. Since then the society at large has seen major changes in terms of its own advancement and the crimes committed. For example there has been an increase in crime against women because of which should attract stricter punishment. Further, a lot of changes has been seen in forensic science. Thus this needs to be incorporated too.  As a result, this is addressed by BNSS.
2. Increased protection of human rights: Criminal laws aim to protect the right of human. A careful look into BNSS shows that stricter punishment for crime against women and children has been laid down. this protects and safeguards their human rights.
3. Enhanced Accountability and greater transparency:  It is no hidden fact that cases in India take ages to be solves and reach a conclusion. As a result, BNSS addresses this issue through speedy trial. It also fosters greater transparency in investigations and Judaical proceedings.

Addressing shortcomings of colonial era criminal laws

1. Backdated Provisions: BNSS replaces the age old provisions of IPC which have now become redundant since they no longer align with the modern society.
2. Delays: The colonial era laws have been critized because it caused delays in the justice process. Through the new reform, these process are expected to expedite the investigation, trail and sentencing phase.
3. Protection to victim and witness: the rights pf victim and witness werent adequately addressed in erstwhile laws.