The Criminal Procedure Code Bill is the Government’s Commitment to Providing Efficient and Fair Justice

By: Ricky Rinaldi

A person can be detained for months just because of subjective reasons from investigators, or a victim cannot get legal assistance from the start. This is not just a portrait of inequality, but also a signal that our criminal justice system needs a comprehensive update. The government together with the DPR are currently responding to this challenge by discussing the Draft Law on the Criminal Procedure Code (RUU KUHAP), as an effort to strengthen justice, efficiency, and protection of human rights in the legal process.

Since its enactment in 1981, the Criminal Procedure Code has been the main reference in criminal proceedings in Indonesia. However, being more than 40 years old has made some of its contents no longer relevant to current developments. Technology has soared, society is increasingly critical, and the need for a fast and fair legal process is becoming increasingly urgent. The Criminal Procedure Code Bill is here as the government’s answer to ensure that every citizen receives legal justice in a dignified and modern manner.

One of the breakthrough steps in the Criminal Procedure Code Bill is the affirmation of time limits at each stage of a criminal case. If previously the legal process could drag on without certainty, now the government wants to present a system that guarantees the investigation, inquiry, prosecution, and trial process runs according to a reasonable deadline. This efficiency is very important to prevent injustice due to delays.

This bill also utilizes advances in digital technology. The government is pushing for an electronic system in case management—starting from the transfer of files, summons of related parties, to online trials. This initiative is not only efficient, but also transparent and has minimal potential for misuse. This step reflects the seriousness of the state in building a modern, technology-based justice system.

In the draft bill, the state also wants to strengthen the role of advocates as an integral part of a fair justice system. An advocate is now not only a companion to the suspect, but can also accompany witnesses or victims from the beginning of the legal process. Advocates are given the right to submit objections if inhumane actions occur, such as intimidation or violence. This step is clear evidence that the state does not want any citizens to experience arbitrary treatment in the legal system.

The government is also tightening the rules on detention. Previously, detention was often criticized for being too easy for investigators to do, but in the Criminal Procedure Code Bill, detention must meet clear requirements and be based on evidence. It is not enough to just have the “belief” of the authorities, but there must be a strong legal basis. This is part of the government’s spirit to strengthen the protection of human rights, while ensuring that the legal process runs more objectively.

Member of Commission III of the DPR, Habiburokhman, said that the Criminal Procedure Code Bill will strengthen the position of suspects, witnesses, and victims in a balanced way. The state is not present to punish alone, but to ensure that the process runs fairly from the start. He also highlighted that legal protection in the judicial process should no longer be a luxury—it must be the right of every citizen without exception.

In line with that, Hinca Pandjaitan emphasized that the reform of the Criminal Procedure Code is a big job that must be completed in order to answer the challenges of the times. He invited the wider community to provide input during the drafting process. The government is open to the voice of the people, because good laws must be born from public participation. This is part of the democratic commitment that is upheld in the national legislative process.

The Criminal Procedure Code Bill also prioritizes protection for vulnerable groups. Women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities will receive special treatment according to their needs. The government even proposed installing surveillance cameras in examination and detention rooms to prevent torture. With this step, the state ensures that there are no more dark spaces in the legal process.

Not only that, this bill encourages alternative solutions outside the courts through diversion and restorative justice mechanisms, especially for minor cases and cases involving children. The state wants to create a more humane resolution space, not just punishment. Diversion will reduce the burden on correctional institutions, accelerate case resolution, and restore social relations damaged by criminal acts.

The Criminal Procedure Code Bill is truly a reflection of the new direction of criminal procedure law reform carried out by the government. This reform is not only about improving procedures, but also shows the state’s commitment to true justice. In it, the government wants to balance legal certainty, protection of rights, and efficiency of the process. This is a big step towards a more legally civilized Indonesia.