Cabinet approves Witness Protection Scheme in Assam

For ensuring fair justice system, Assam to introduce state’s first-ever witness protection scheme which is approved by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday.

Assam CM through his social media handle informed about the scheme, “The Competent Authority is a standing committee in each District chaired by the District and Sessions Judge. The Head of the Police in the District and an officer not below the rank of the ADC to be nominated by the District Magistrate will be its members and the Head of the Prosecution in the District will be its Member Secretary. The Witnesses will be categorized as A, B & C as per threat perception. Constitution of Witness Protection Fund under the scheme. A State Witness Protection Authority will be constituted.” However, under the scheme includes in-camera trials, such as CCTV in the witness’ home.