LUCKNOW, June 29 -- Backed by zero-tolerance policy towards crime, Uttar Pradesh's 'Operation Conviction' has secured over 97,000 convictions in just one year. The swift implementation of three new criminal laws and fast-tracking of 457 key cases have further bolstered this drive. Union home minister Amit Shah lauded these efforts at the recent Central Zonal Council meeting in Varanasi, said a press note shared by the state government media cell on Saturday. According to ADG Prosecution Deepesh Juneja, the effective implementation of the three new criminal laws is not only propelling Uttar Pradesh toward a crime-free status, but also setting an exemplary model for the entire nation. He said in the past year, 457 cases registered under the new laws have seen convictions. "These include the death penalty for 4 criminals, life imprisonment for 10, imprisonment of less than 20 years for 425 offenders, and over 20 years' imprisonment for 19," he added. "In these cases, the prosecution effectively presented evidence and witness testimonies, making full use of the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to strengthen and expedite the judicial process. The state government ensured witness protection, systematic evidence collection, and timely presence in court-all essential elements of a fair trial," he said. As per the ADG, since July 1, 2024, effective use of digital documentation and witness statements via video conferencing has taken place in the hearing of 25,000 cases across the state. This has significantly reduced the need for police and government witnesses to appear repeatedly in court, resulting in an estimated cost saving of Rs 25 crore for the state government.htc...