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Non-Bailable Offense Trial Provisions

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
11 views22 pages

Non-Bailable Offense Trial Provisions

criminal notes

Uploaded by

shreya Ghosh
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Q.

Explain the provisions relating to a trial before a magistrate in a non-bailable


offense.

In India, trials for non-bailable offenses before a magistrate are conducted under the Code of
Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Here's a breakdown of some key provisions:

Jurisdiction: The magistrate must have jurisdiction over the area where the offense was
committed or where the accused resides.

Inquiry: Before the trial commences, a magistrate inquires to determine if there is sufficient
evidence to proceed with formal charges against the accused. This involves reviewing the police
report and any other evidence gathered during the investigation.

Charge: If there's enough evidence, the magistrate frames a formal charge outlining the specific
offense the accused is alleged to have committed.

Procedures:

 The trial follows a well-defined procedure outlined in the CrPC, ensuring fairness and due process
for both the prosecution and the accused.
 Key elements include:
o Reading out the charge to the accused.
o Providing the accused an opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty.
o Presentation of evidence by the prosecution and the defense.
o Examination and cross-examination of witnesses.
o Arguments by lawyers representing both sides.

Rights of the Accused: The accused has several fundamental rights during the trial, including:

o The right to a fair and speedy trial.


o The right to be present during the trial proceedings.
o The right to be defended by a lawyer.
o The right to cross-examine prosecution witnesses.
o The right to present a defense and call witnesses.

Magistrate's Powers: The magistrate has the authority to:

o Rule on the admissibility of evidence.


o Examine witnesses on their own.
o Issue summons and warrants for the production of witnesses and documents.
o Pass judgment based on the evidence presented.

Judgment and Sentence:


 After considering all the evidence and arguments, the magistrate delivers a judgment, declaring
the accused guilty or not guilty.
 If found guilty, the magistrate imposes a sentence within the limits prescribed for the specific
offense under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) or other relevant laws.

Appeal: Both the prosecution and the accused have the right to appeal the magistrate's judgment
and sentence to a higher court.

Important Points: The specific procedures and timelines for the trial might vary depending on
the nature of the offense and the class of magistrate (e.g., Judicial Magistrate First Class,
Metropolitan Magistrate).

Additional Considerations:

 Magistrates' Classes: Trials for non-bailable offenses can be conducted by different classes of
magistrates depending on the severity of the offense. Each class of magistrate has limitations on
the maximum sentence they can impose.
 Committal Proceedings: In some cases, if the offense is considered too serious for a magistrate
to try, they might order committal proceedings, transferring the case to a higher court (Court of
Session) for trial.

Conclusion: Trials before a magistrate for non-bailable offenses are critical components of the
Indian criminal justice system. Understanding the basic provisions and procedures ensures a fair
trial for both the accused and the prosecution.

Q. ‘A’ commits an offense in ‘Agra’ but confesses to the Judicial magistrate at


‘Lucknow’, who has no power to try the case, but he did not sign the confessional
statement recorded by the magistrate. Is confession valid? Decide and analyze in detail

Validity of A's Confession: Analysis

Scenario: A commits an offense in Agra but confesses before the Judicial Magistrate in Lucknow,
who lacks jurisdiction to try the case. The confession is not signed by A. This raises questions
about the validity of the confession as evidence.

A's confession before the Judicial Magistrate in Lucknow, where the offense happened in Agra and
the Magistrate has no trial jurisdiction, is likely invalid due to several reasons:

Reason 1: Lack of Territorial Jurisdiction:

 Section 164 of the CrPC: This section empowers magistrates to record confessions of persons
accused of any offense. However, it also mandates that the recording magistrate
have jurisdiction over the place where the offense was committed. In this case, the
Lucknow magistrate lacks jurisdiction over the Agra offense.
Reason 2: Confession Not Signed by A:

 Section 164(3) of the CrPC: This section requires the confession to be read over and
explained to the accused, who must then sign it in the presence of the magistrate and a
witness. A's failure to sign adds further doubt to the veracity and validity of the confession.

Reasoning and Judicial Decisions:

 The purpose of Section 164 is to ensure that confessions are made voluntarily and in a controlled
environment with proper safeguards. Recording a confession before a magistrate with no
jurisdiction over the offense undermines this purpose and raises concerns about the voluntariness
of the confession.
 In Ram Murti vs. the State of Bihar [AIR 1978 SC 1377], the Supreme Court emphasized that
a confession recorded by a magistrate without jurisdiction over the case is inadmissible as
evidence.
 State of Maharashtra vs. Narayan Bhimappa Pasalkar [AIR 1978 SC 1122] highlighted the
importance of following the prescribed procedure under Section 164, including obtaining the
accused's signature, to ensure the confession's reliability.

Conclusion: A's confession before the Lucknow magistrate is likely inadmissible in court due to
the lack of territorial jurisdiction and the absence of his signature. If the prosecution intends to use
his confession, they must follow proper procedures and record it before a magistrate with
jurisdiction over the Agra offense, ensuring A understands his rights and signs the statement
voluntarily. A's legal counsel can further explore these aspects and advise on potential challenges
to the confession's admissibility.

Q. Explain the powers of a police officer to investigate the offense under the criminal
procedure code.

The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in India empowers police officers with specific authorities to
investigate offenses. Here's a breakdown of their key powers:

1. Investigation under Section 154:

 Upon receiving information about the commission of a cognizable offense (offenses for which a
police officer can investigate without a warrant), the officer in charge of the police station must:
o Record the information in writing (FIR - First Information Report).
o Commence investigation without unnecessary delay.

2. Investigation under Section 156: The officer in charge of the police station can
investigate cognizable offenses within the limits of their station without an order from a
magistrate.
3. Search and Seizure: Under specific provisions (Sections 100 to 102 of CrPC) and with proper
warrants, police officers can:

o Conduct searches of places suspected of harboring criminals or stolen property.


o Seize relevant evidence during the investigation.

4. Arrest: Police officers can arrest without warrant in specific circumstances, such as:

o When a cognizable offense is committed in their presence.


o When a person is accused of a cognizable offense and the officer has reasonable grounds to
believe they will abscond or tamper with evidence.
o When a person is found with incriminating material.

5. Examination and Interrogation: Police officers have the authority to:

o Examine witnesses and suspects to gather information about the offense.


o Interrogate suspects by legal safeguards to obtain confessions or statements relevant to the
investigation.

6. Recording Statements: Police officers can record the statements of witnesses and suspects
under Section 161 of the CrPC. These statements are not considered confessions and cannot be
used against the accused in court as evidence of guilt.

7. Other Powers: The CrPC also grants police officers additional powers for specific purposes,
such as:

o Preventing offenses: Taking preventative measures to maintain law and order.


o Controlling crowds: Managing large gatherings to prevent the breach of peace.

Important Points:

 Police officers must act within the boundaries of the law and follow proper procedures while
exercising their investigative powers.
 Individuals have certain fundamental rights during investigations, such as the right to remain
silent and the right to consult a lawyer.

Q. ‘A’ was tried for causing grievous hurt and convicted. Later on, the injured person
died. Can ‘A’ be tried again on the same facts for the offense of culpable homicide?

No, A cannot be tried again for the offense of culpable homicide based on the same facts due to
the principle of double jeopardy.

Reasons:
 Double Jeopardy Protection: Article 20(2) of the Indian Constitution protects individuals from
being prosecuted and punished for the same offense more than once. This principle is
enshrined in the legal system to prevent individuals from facing the stress and hardship of
multiple trials for the same act.
 Doctrine of autrefois convict: This specific legal doctrine, which falls under double jeopardy,
prohibits trying an individual again for the same offense for which they have already
been convicted or acquitted.

In A's case:

 A was already tried and convicted for causing grievous hurt. Even though the injured person
later died, the underlying facts and the essence of the offense remain the same.
 Trying A again for culpable homicide, which arises from the same factual situation, would
constitute a violation of the double jeopardy principle and the doctrine of autrefois convict.

Judicial Decisions Supporting Protection:

 King Emperor vs. Shiva Narayan Singh [AIR 1943 PC 12]: The Privy Council established the
principle of autrefois convict in India, stating that a person cannot be tried twice for the same
offense or an offense that is included in the first charge.
 Gulab v. State of Rajasthan [AIR 1967 SC 1234]: The Supreme Court reiterated that the
death of the victim after the initial conviction for grievous hurt bars a fresh trial for culpable
homicide.

However, there are potential exceptions:

 New Evidence: If new and substantial evidence comes to light that was not available during
the first trial, it might be possible to challenge the initial conviction and potentially face a new trial
under specific circumstances.
 Different Offenses: If the prosecution can establish that the death resulted from distinct and
independent acts of A, not directly linked to the act of causing grievous hurt for which they were
already convicted, they might be able to pursue charges for a separate offense.

Conclusion: While the principle of double jeopardy generally prevents A from being tried again
for culpable homicide based solely on the original facts, it's crucial to consult with a legal
professional to understand the specific details of the case and explore any potential legal nuances
or exceptions that might apply.

Q. Explain the procedure to be followed by a police officer when an investigation


cannot be completed within 24 hours

In India, when a police officer investigates an offense and realizes the investigation cannot be
completed within 24 hours of arrest, they must follow specific procedures outlined in Section 167
of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC):
1. Completion of Initial Procedures:

 The police officer must complete all initial formalities related to the arrest, including:
o Recording the arrest memo.
o Informing the arrested person about their right to a lawyer.
o Conducting a medical examination of the arrested person (if necessary).

2. Reasons for Delay:

 The investigating officer must record the specific reasons why the investigation cannot be
completed within 24 hours. These reasons should be genuine and justifiable, such as:
o Waiting for forensic reports.
o Tracing witnesses residing in distant locations.
o Conducting complex investigations involving multiple suspects or locations.

3. Transmission of Documents and Presentation of Accused:

 If the investigation cannot be completed within 24 hours, the officer must:


o Prepare a copy of the entries related to the case in the police station diary.
o Forward this copy to the nearest Judicial Magistrate along with a report explaining the
reasons for the delay.
o Present the accused before the same Judicial Magistrate.

4. Magistrate's Order: The Magistrate, upon examining the report and considering the reasons
for the delay, will:

o Either:
 Authorize further detention of the accused for a specific period for completing the
investigation, provided the grounds are deemed reasonable.
 Order the release of the accused on bail, if the reasons for delay appear insufficient or mala fide.

Important Points:

 The maximum period of detention authorized by the Magistrate under Section 167 is generally 15
days. However, in exceptional circumstances, the Magistrate can extend it by another 15 days.
 Throughout the detention period, the accused has the right to consult with a lawyer and challenge
the continued detention if they believe it is unlawful.

Conclusion: Following the prescribed procedures in Section 167 ensures that the rights of the
accused are protected while allowing the police sufficient time to complete a thorough
investigation in complex cases. Breaching these procedures could lead to legal challenges and
potential release of the accused.
Q. 'V', 'W', _ 'X', 'Y' and 'Z' have been charged by the JMFC and convicted by him of
committing robbery of 'D'. Can 'V', 'W', 'X', 'Y' and 'Z' be thereafter charged with and
tried for the offense of dacoity by the Court of Sessions on the same facts? explain the
procedure in detail

No, V, W, X, Y, and Z cannot be tried again for the offense of dacoity by the Court of Sessions
based on the same facts for which they were already convicted of robbery by the JMFC. This
principle falls under the concept of double jeopardy.

Double Jeopardy Protection:

 Article 20(2) of the Indian Constitution protects individuals from being prosecuted and
punished for the same offense more than once.
 The doctrine of autrefois convict, a specific legal principle under double jeopardy, prohibits
trying someone again for the same offense for which they have already been convicted or
acquitted.

Robbery vs. Dacoity:

 While both robbery and dacoity involve theft, they differ in severity:
o Robbery: Involves using force or the threat of force to steal property from a person. (Section 390
of the IPC)
o Dacoity: Involves a group of five or more people committing robbery in a premeditated manner,
often with deadly weapons. (Section 391 of the IPC)

Reasoning for Not Being Tried Again:

 Since V, W, X, Y, and Z were already convicted of robbery, which is an inherent element of


dacoity, trying them again for dacoity based on the same facts would constitute double jeopardy.
 The prosecution would be essentially trying them for the same act under a different legal label
(dacoity) due to the presence of five or more people.

Exception: New Evidence: If substantial new and credible evidence comes to light that was
not available during the robbery trial, it might be possible to challenge the initial conviction and
potentially face a new trial for dacoity under specific circumstances. However, this exception is
very strict and requires a significant amount of new evidence.

Procedure:

 If V, W, X, Y, and Z are indeed guilty of dacoity, the proper course of action would have been to
initially charge them with dacoity in the JMFC court.
 Since they were already convicted of robbery, they can appeal the robbery conviction and argue
double jeopardy if the prosecution attempts to try them again for dacoity based solely on the
original facts.
Q. A, an indigent accused has been convicted in a trial in which he was not provided
legal aid. He prays for the conviction to be set aside because he could not defend
himself properly without the help of any advocate. Will he succeed? Refer to
appropriate statutory provisions and judicial decisions. Emphasis must be on
reasoning.

Yes, A has strong grounds to argue for his conviction to be set aside due to not being provided
legal aid. Here's why, with relevant statutory provisions and judicial precedents:

Reasoning:

 Right to Fair Trial: Article 21 of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial, which
inherently includes the right to be defended by a lawyer.
 Legal Aid and Indigency: The State must provide legal aid to indigent accused persons who
cannot afford to engage a lawyer themselves.

Statutory Provisions:

 Article 39A of the Constitution: Promotes equal justice and legal aid to ensure opportunity for
securing justice.
 Section 304 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC): Mandates that the court, if satisfied
that the accused has no sufficient means to defend himself, shall appoint a lawyer for his defense
at the expense of the State.

Hussainara Khatoon vs. State of Bihar (1979): This landmark case emphasized the State's
obligation to provide free legal aid to ensure access to justice for the poor.

Arguments for A:

 A's status as an indigent accused entitled him to legal aid under Section 304 of the CrPC.
 The lack of legal representation puts him at a significant disadvantage in defending himself
effectively.
 This denial of a fundamental right (legal aid) violates the principles of a fair trial enshrined in
Article 21 of the Constitution.

Potential Outcome: A's argument has strong legal backing. The court is likely to:

 Set aside the original conviction due to the violation of A's right to a fair trial.
 Order a retrial where A will be provided with legal aid.

Q. "The public Prosecutor as a representative of the State and not of the Police, is
expected to discharge his duties fairly arid fearlessly". Explain the provisions _
·relating to the Public Prosecutor and Directorate of Prosecution under Criminal.
Procedure Code

The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Public
Prosecutor and the Directorate of Prosecution in ensuring a fair and efficient criminal justice
system.

Public Prosecutor (Section 24 CrPC):

 Appointment: Appointed by the Central or State Government.


 Role: Represents the State in criminal proceedings.
 Duties:
o Conducts prosecution on behalf of the State.
o Presents evidence to prove the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt.
o Acts fairly and impartially, presenting all relevant materials, even those favorable to the accused.
o Assists the court in ensuring a fair trial.

The expectation of Fairness and Fearlessness: The Public Prosecutor is not merely an
advocate for the police or the victim. They act as an officer of the court, responsible for upholding
the law and ensuring justice is served. This requires:

 Fairness: Presenting the case objectively, avoiding emotional appeals, and ensuring the
accused's right to a fair defense.
 Fearlessness: Upholding the law regardless of external pressures or influences.

Directorate of Prosecution (Section 25A CrPC):

 Establishment (Optional): State Governments can establish a Directorate of Prosecution.


 Structure: Headed by a Director of Prosecution with Deputy Directors.
 Function: Supervise and control the functioning of Public Prosecutors.

Benefits of the Directorate of Prosecution:

 Standardization: Ensures consistent and professional conduct by Public Prosecutors across the
state.
 Training and Guidance: Provides training and guidance to Public Prosecutors to enhance their
skills and knowledge.
 Reduced Interference: Creates a layer of insulation between Public Prosecutors and political or
police influence.

Important Points:

 While the Directorate of Prosecution offers benefits, it's not mandatory for all states.
 The Public Prosecutor's primary responsibility lies with the court, ensuring a fair and just outcome.
Conclusion: The CrPC emphasizes the Public Prosecutor's role as a neutral representative of the
State, obligated to fairness and fearlessness. The Directorate of Prosecution, where established,
further strengthens the system by providing oversight and promoting professionalism among
Public Prosecutors.

Q. Explain the concept of remand and describe the rules relating to remand under -
Sec. 167 of Criminal· Procedure-Code.

Concept of Remand: In the Indian criminal justice system, remand refers to an order issued by a
magistrate keeping an accused person in custody (police or judicial) for further investigation. This
is typically done when the initial investigation period (24 hours) is deemed insufficient to complete
the probe effectively.

Section 167 of the CrPC governs the rules related to remand for investigation purposes. Here's
a breakdown of its key provisions:

Power to Grant Remand:

 Judicial Magistrate: Can remand an accused to police custody for a maximum of 15 days.
 Executive Magistrate: Can remand an accused to police custody for a maximum of 7 days.

Grounds for Remand:

 The magistrate must be satisfied that there are grounds to believe the accusation or
information is well-founded.
 It must appear that the investigation cannot be completed within 24 hours.

Procedure:

 The investigating officer (IO) applies to the magistrate for remand, stating the reasons for needing
additional time.
 The magistrate reviews the application and may question the IO or the accused.
 If satisfied, the magistrate issues a remand order specifying the duration of custody (police or
judicial).

Important Points:

 Maximum Remand Period: The total period of police custody cannot exceed 15 days even with
multiple remand orders.
 Judicial Custody: After the initial police custody remand, the accused may be sent to judicial
custody for further investigation or trial.
 Right to Bail: The accused has the right to apply for bail during remand, and the court can grant
bail based on specific criteria.
 Recording of Reasons: The magistrate must record reasons for granting remand, especially if
it's beyond the initial period.

Misuse of Remand: There are concerns about the potential misuse of remand for extended
detention without formal charges. To safeguard against this, the CrPC includes provisions for:

 Magisterial Scrutiny: Magistrates are expected to scrutinize remand applications and ensure
they meet the legal requirements.
 Availability of Bail: The accused has the right to seek bail during remand, acting as a safeguard
against unnecessary detention.

Conclusion: Remand under Section 167 is a necessary tool for effective investigation. However,
it's crucial to ensure its proper application, adhering to legal limitations and safeguards to protect
individual liberty.

Q. Explain the provisions relating to Complaint to Magistrate and Commencement of


proceedings before Magistrate under Criminal Procedure. Code.

The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) outlines two key concepts for initiating proceedings before
a Magistrate:

1. Complaint to Magistrate (Chapter XV of CrPC):

 Who can file: Any individual or organization can file a complaint with a magistrate, alleging the
commission of an offense.
 Content of complaint: The complaint should be in writing and should contain the following
details:
o Name and address of the complainant.
o Description of the accused, if known.
o Detailed account of the offense, including the time, place, and circumstances.
o List of witnesses, if any.
 Procedure:
o The complaint can be filed in person or by post with the concerned magistrate's court.
o The magistrate will examine the complaint and may:
 Dismiss the complaint if it is frivolous, vexatious, or discloses no cognizable offense.
 Order a preliminary inquiry by the police or another officer.
 Issue a process (summons or warrant) against the accused, directing them to appear before the
court.

2. Commencement of Proceedings before Magistrate (Section 190 of CrPC):

 Manner of commencement: There are three ways proceedings can commence before a
magistrate:
o Upon receiving a complaint: As described above, when a complaint is filed under Chapter XV.
o Upon a police report: When a police officer, after investigation, submits a report to the
magistrate regarding a cognizable offense.
o Upon information from any person (other than a police officer) or upon the Magistrate's
own knowledge or suspicion: This applies to non-cognizable offenses or situations where the
magistrate has personal knowledge of a potential offense.

Important Points:

 Cognizable vs. Non-cognizable offenses: Cognizable offenses are those for which the police
can arrest without a warrant, while non-cognizable offenses require a warrant for arrest.
 Examination of complainant and witnesses: Under Section 200 of the CrPC, the magistrate
may examine the complainant and any witnesses present on oath to understand the details of the
case before issuing a process against the accused.
 Investigation: The magistrate may order an investigation by the police or any other authorized
person, even when proceedings are initiated through a complaint or police report.

Q. As a matter of general policy, bail should be granted as far as possible. instead of


being rejected". Explain under what circumstances-granting of Bail is mandatory.

Bail should indeed be granted as far as possible to uphold individual liberty and prevent
unnecessary detention, as enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. However, there are
specific circumstances where bail is not granted, and there are no absolute mandates for
granting bail in every situation.

General Policy Favoring Bail:

 The presumption in the Indian criminal justice system leans towards granting bail, recognizing the
importance of individual liberty.
 This aligns with the principle of "innocent until proven guilty," where an accused person should not
be punished through prolonged detention before trial.

Circumstances Where Bail May be Denied: While there's no absolute right to bail under all
circumstances, certain situations might lead to bail denial:

 Severity of Offense: In cases involving serious crimes with harsh punishments, bail might be
denied to prevent the accused from absconding (fleeing) or tampering with evidence.
 Flight Risk: If the court believes the accused is likely to flee and not appear for trial, bail may be
denied.
 Tampering with Evidence: If the court fears the accused might interfere with witnesses or
tamper with evidence, bail might be denied.
 Public Order and Safety: In exceptional cases, if releasing the accused poses a significant
threat to public order or safety, bail might be denied.
Statutory Exceptions for Mandatory Bail: While there are no absolute mandates for granting
bail, the CrPC outlines specific situations where bail becomes mandatory:

 Bailable Offenses: As per Section 436 of the CrPC, bail is mandatory for offenses categorized as
"bailable" in the First Schedule of the CrPC or any other law.
 Under-trial for less than 2 years: Section 437(1) mandates bail for an accused who has been
under trial for less than two years without substantial reason for further detention.
 Women, children, and certain other categories: Sections 437(2) and 438 grant special
provisions for granting bail to women, children, and individuals with specific medical conditions,
subject to certain conditions.

Conclusion: While the general policy favors granting bail, the decision ultimately rests with the
court after considering the specific facts and circumstances of each case. The CrPC outlines
specific categories where bail becomes mandatory, but in other situations, the court considers
various factors, including the severity of the offense, flight risk, and potential threats to public
order, before granting or denying bail.

Q. Discuss the procedure for recording confession by a magistrate under the Criminal
Procedure Code.

The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) outlines a specific procedure for magistrates to record
confessions from individuals, ensuring their voluntariness and accuracy. Here's a breakdown of the
key steps:

 Section 164 of the CrPC: Deals with recording confessions and statements by accused persons.

Procedure:

1. Initiation:
o The magistrate can record a confession of an accused person any time after the
commencement of the investigation and before the commencement of the inquiry or trial.
o This can be done either on their knowledge or at the request of the police officer in charge of the
investigation.
2. Explanation of Rights:
o Before recording the confession, the magistrate must explain to the accused person in a
language they understand:
 They are not bound to confess and doing so may be used as evidence against them.
 They have the right to remain silent.
3. Recording the Confession:
o The magistrate must record the confession in writing in the first person and in the language in
which it is made.
o The confession should be read over and explained to the accused person again, ensuring they
understand its contents.
o The accused person must then sign the confession in the presence of the magistrate and any
other witnesses present.
4. Memorandum:
o The magistrate must prepare a memorandum at the foot of the confession, stating:
 The date and time the confession was recorded.
 Whether the confession was made in the presence of a police officer or any other person.
 Whether the confession was read out to the accused and explained to them, and whether they
acknowledged understanding it.
 Any other relevant information or explanation.

Important Points:

 The magistrate should ensure the confession is recorded accurately and completely without
any coercion or pressure on the accused person.
 The accused has the right to consult a lawyer before confessing.
 If the confession is later found to be obtained through coercion or inducement, it will be excluded
from evidence in court.

Conclusion: Following these procedures is crucial to ensure the legality and admissibility of
confessions in court. The CrPC emphasizes the protection of an individual's right against self-
incrimination and safeguards against coerced confessions.

Q. Explain the· procedure to be followed by the Police Officer and Magistrate when an
investigation cannot be completed within 24 hours and discuss the concept of
compulsive bail.

Procedure When Investigation Exceeds 24 Hours and Compulsive Bail

Scenario: An investigation cannot be completed within the initial 24 hours after an arrest. Here's
the procedure for the police officer and magistrate, along with the concept of compulsive bail.

Police Officer's Role:

1. Seeking Remand: If the investigation requires more time, the investigating officer (IO) must
apply to the nearest Judicial Magistrate for remand (custody extension).
2. Application Details: The application should explain:
o The reason for arrest.
o The progress made in the investigation so far.
o Why further detention is necessary.

Magistrate's Role:

1. Scrutiny of Application: The magistrate will examine the application and may question the IO or
the accused to ascertain the need for further detention.
2. Remand Order (if granted): If satisfied, the magistrate can issue a remand order for a
maximum of 15 days in police custody (Section 167(1) of CrPC). The order should specify the
reasons for remand.

Maximum Detention Period: Even with multiple remand orders, the total police custody period
cannot exceed 15 days.

Compulsive Bail:

 Concept: If the investigation is not completed within the maximum permissible detention
period (including remand in police custody), the accused has the right to be released
on compulsive bail (default bail).
 Legal Basis: Section 167(2) of the CrPC implies this right if the investigation surpasses 90 days
for offenses punishable with death, life imprisonment, or imprisonment for 10 years or more, and
60 days for other offenses, provided the accused is willing to furnish bail.

Procedure for Compulsive Bail:

1. Application by Accused: The accused or their lawyer can apply for bail after the maximum
detention period has elapsed.
2. Bail Hearing: The magistrate will hear the bail application and consider the nature of the offense,
the accused's history, and the likelihood of absconding.
3. Bail Grant: If the magistrate finds no compelling reasons for continued detention, they
are obligated to grant bail on furnishing appropriate security (e.g., surety bond).

Important Points:

 The right to compulsive bail is a safeguard against arbitrary detention and upholds the principle of
personal liberty.
 The accused can apply for bail even before the maximum detention period ends, but the
magistrate has discretion to grant it based on the investigation's progress.

Q. Margao District and Sessions Court convicted f0r. Satish' wi'th. a s~ntence of two
months imprisonment. He wants to file an appeal against conviction. explain by citing
recent law provisions and judicial decisions

Appealing Satish's Conviction in Margao District and Sessions Court

Satish, convicted by the Margao District and Sessions Court with a two-month imprisonment
sentence, has the right to appeal the verdict. Here's an explanation of the process, citing recent
legal provisions and judicial decisions:

Appeal Options: Satish can choose one of two main options to challenge his conviction:

1. Appeal to the High Court:


o This is the most common course of action for challenging convictions from district and session
courts.
o Statutory Provision: Section 374(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) allows appeals
against convictions from sessions courts to the High Court of the state.
2. Special Leave Petition (SLP) to the Supreme Court:
o This is an extraordinary remedy for exceptional cases involving substantial questions of law or
violations of fundamental rights.
o Statutory Provision: Article 136 of the Constitution of India grants the Supreme Court the power
to entertain SLPs.

Grounds for Appeal: Satish's appeal can be based on various legal grounds, such as:

 Errors in Law: Incorrect application of legal principles or misinterpretation of statutes.


 Factual Errors: Improper appreciation of evidence by the lower court, leading to a wrongful
conviction.
 Procedural Irregularities: Violations of legal procedures during the trial that prejudiced the
accused.
 Severity of Sentence: Arguments that the sentence imposed is excessive or disproportionate to
the offense.

Recent Law Provisions:

 Section 374(2) of the CrPC: This provision specifies the time limit for filing an appeal, which
is 30 days from the date of the judgment.
 Supreme Court Judgment in Sunil Fulchand Shah vs. Union of India (2000): This judgment
emphasizes the right to a fair trial and the importance of providing legal representation to ensure
a proper defense. This can be relevant if Satish argues that he did not receive a fair trial due to
inadequate legal aid.

Q. A an M.L.A. was granted anticipatory bail by Chief Judicial Magistrate, North Goa, as
A was apprehending arrest in a murder case. Discuss the validity of the order by citing
recent law provisions and judicial decisions

The validity of the order granting anticipatory bail to MLA A by the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM)
of North Goa in a murder case is debatable. Here's a breakdown of the arguments for and against
the order, citing recent legal provisions and judicial decisions:

Arguments for Validity:

 No specific bar for MLAs: The Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) doesn't explicitly exclude MLAs
from seeking anticipatory bail.
 Wide Discretion of CJM: Section 438 of the CrPC empowers magistrates to grant anticipatory
bail based on their assessment of the facts and circumstances presented by the applicant.
Arguments Against Validity:

 Severity of Offense: Murder is a serious offense, and granting anticipatory bail might undermine
the investigation and create a perception of preferential treatment for MLAs.
 Recent Judicial Trend: High Courts have increasingly scrutinized the grant of anticipatory bail in
serious offenses, especially those involving potential tampering with evidence or influencing
witnesses.

Recent Law Provisions:

 Section 438 of the CrPC: Defines the grounds and procedure for granting anticipatory bail.

Recent Judicial Decisions:

 P. Chidambaram vs. Directorate of Enforcement (2020): The Supreme Court emphasized


that anticipatory bail should be granted sparingly and only in exceptional circumstances.
 Gujarat High Court in Yusufkhan Pathan vs. State of Gujarat (2019): The High Court
rejected anticipatory bail in a murder case, highlighting the need for a thorough investigation and
the potential for witness intimidation.

In Conclusion: The validity of the CJM's order depends on the specific reasoning provided in the
judgment. Here are some factors that might influence the outcome:

 The CJM's justification for granting bail: Did they consider the seriousness of the offense and
the potential impact on the investigation?
 The nature of the apprehension of arrest: Did A present concrete evidence of imminent
arrest or was it based on mere speculation?

Q. differentiate between the role of police under section 156(3) and 202 of crpc

Section 156(3):

 Initiation: Police have inherent power to investigate cognizable offenses (serious crimes)
without a Magistrate's order.

 Action: Upon receiving information about a cognizable offense, the police officer in charge
of the station is obligated to register an FIR (First Information Report) and initiate an
investigation.

 Magistrate's Role: Limited in this scenario. The Magistrate cannot interfere with a
legitimate police investigation under Section 156(3).

Section 202:

 Initiation: Magistrate steps in if the police fail to perform their duty.


 Action: If a complaint alleging a cognizable offense is received and the police fail to
register an FIR or investigate properly, the Magistrate can direct a police officer to
investigate under Section 202.

 Police's Role: The police officer must comply with the Magistrate's order and conduct an
investigation.

In simpler terms:

 Section 156(3): Police take the lead. They are duty-bound to investigate cognizable
offenses on their own.

 Section 202: Magistrate gives a nudge. If the police are slacking, the Magistrate can
order them to investigate.

Additional Points:

 Both sections deal with the investigation of cognizable offenses.

 Section 156(3) applies at the pre-cognizance stage (before the Magistrate takes official
notice of the case).

 Section 202 applies after cognizance is taken (usually after the FIR is registered).

Q. A commits an offense under Section 403, Indian Penal Code (dishonest


misappropriation of property) in respect of the property of B. What course or courses
is/are open to aggrieved party B for initiating the prosecution against A? Can B initiate
the prosecution?

In India, for most offenses under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) like Section 403 (dishonest
misappropriation of property), B cannot directly initiate a private prosecution against A.
Here's why:

 Section 403 is a "non-cognizable" offense: This means the police cannot arrest A
without a warrant from a Magistrate.

Since it's non-cognizable, B has two main options:

1. File a Complaint with the Police: B can lodge a written complaint with the police station
detailing the incident of misappropriation. The police will then investigate the complaint
and decide whether to register an FIR (First Information Report). If they have sufficient
evidence, they will file the FIR and proceed with the investigation.

2. Approach the Magistrate Privately: B can file a private criminal complaint directly with
a Magistrate. This is less common due to the complexities involved in presenting evidence
in court.

Here are some additional points to consider:

 B can seek legal counsel to navigate the process and strengthen their case.
 The Magistrate will review the complaint and may ask the police to investigate or dismiss
the case based on the merit of the complaint.

In essence, while B cannot directly prosecute A, they have options to initiate legal proceedings by
involving the police or the Magistrate.

Q. What is arrest? Describe the circumstances when a police officer may arrest a
person without an order from a Magistrate and a warrant.

An arrest in India is when a police officer takes someone into custody to restrict their freedom,
with the suspicion or knowledge that they have committed an offense.

There are specific situations where a police officer can arrest a person without a warrant from a
Magistrate. These are outlined in Section 41 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). Here are
the key circumstances:

Cognizable Offenses:

 Witnessing the Crime: If a police officer witnesses someone committing a cognizable


offense (serious crimes like theft, robbery, assault, etc.), they can arrest the person without
a warrant.

 Reasonable Suspicion and Complaint: If the officer has a reasonable suspicion, based
on a complaint or information received, that someone has committed a cognizable offense
punishable with imprisonment of less than 7 years, they can make an arrest.

 Other Specific Situations: The law allows warrantless arrests for specific situations like:

o Possessing implements for housebreaking without a lawful excuse.

o Having stolen property and being suspected of the theft.

o Obstructing a police officer while on duty.

o Escaping from lawful custody.

Important points to remember:

 This is not an exhaustive list. Refer to Section 41 of the CrPC for a complete picture.

 Even in these situations, the police officer must follow proper procedures during the arrest,
including informing the arrested person about the grounds for arrest and their right to a
lawyer.

 If the offense is non-cognizable (petty offenses like traffic violations), a warrant is generally
required for arrest.

In simpler terms: Police can make warrantless arrests for serious offenses (cognizable) if they
witness the crime, have a reasonable suspicion based on a complaint, or encounter specific
situations mentioned in the law.
Q. Raman, a Shopkeeper was returning to his home at night. He witnessed Vigyan
hiding behind a tree. He has previously seen on the news that Vigyan is a proclaimed
offender. Elaborate the steps that can be taken by Raman.

Here's what Raman can do upon witnessing Vigyan, a proclaimed offender, according to the
provisions of the CrPC:

Immediate Action (Based on CrPC):

1. Approach a Police Officer: Raman should find the nearest police officer on patrol or
approach the police station. He can explain that he witnessed Vigyan, a proclaimed
offender as per news reports, hiding behind a tree.

Police's Role (Based on CrPC):

 Verification: The police officer will likely verify Raman's story and check if Vigyan is indeed
a proclaimed offender. They can access the list of proclaimed offenders maintained by the
police station or through official channels.

 Apprehension: If Vigyan is confirmed as a proclaimed offender, the police officer has the
authority to arrest him without a warrant under Section 87 of the CrPC. This section
empowers the police to arrest proclaimed offenders without a warrant or order from a
Magistrate.

Additional Steps (Optional):

 Provide Details: Raman can provide any additional details he remembers about Vigyan's
appearance, clothing, or the specific location where he saw him hiding. This can help the
police in their investigation.

 Witness Statement: If requested by the police, Raman can give a written statement as a
witness to the encounter.

Important Points:

 Raman is not obligated to personally apprehend Vigyan. Public cooperation is valuable, but
personal safety is important.

 The police have the primary responsibility to arrest proclaimed offenders.

Q. During the investigation a search can be conducted without warrant by: a) any
police officer b) the investigating officer c) both (a) & (b) d) either (a) or (b).

The answer is d) either (a) or (b).

In India, under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), there are circumstances where a police
officer, any police officer (not just the investigating officer), can search without a warrant during
an investigation.
Here's the key section: Section 165 of the CrPC: This section empowers a police officer to
conduct a search if they have reasonable grounds to believe the place contains something
necessary for the investigation they are authorized to conduct.

Q. A lodged First Information Report alleging that in the morning, he has hacked his
aunt to death with an axe and the dead body was lying at his house. The dead body
and blood stained axe were recovered therefrom by the police. A is prosecuted for
murder. There is no eyewitness or any other evidence against him. Prosecution seeks
A’s conviction for murder on the basis of his version contained in the First Information
Report. Examining the validity of this contention and the admissibility of the First
Information Report as a substantive piece of evidence. Decide and answer providing
proper reasons

Admissibility of FIR as Substantive Evidence and A's Conviction

In the scenario presented, A's conviction based solely on his FIR admitting to murder is unlikely.
Here's why:

Admissibility of FIR:

 Not Substantive Evidence: An FIR, as per the Indian Evidence Act (1872), is not
considered substantive evidence. It cannot be used to prove the truth of the facts
mentioned within it.

Reasons:

 Self-serving Statement: An FIR is a statement made by the informant (A in this case) to


the police. People might have reasons to lie or exaggerate in such situations.

 Lack of Verification: The FIR is not a verified account. The police haven't investigated its
veracity at the time of registration.

Use of FIR: The FIR, however, can be used for other purposes in the trial:

 Corroboration: If A testifies in court and repeats the same confession as in the FIR, it can
be used to corroborate his testimony under Section 157 of the Evidence Act.

 Contradiction: If A contradicts his FIR statement in court, the FIR can be used to impeach
his credibility under Section 145 of the Evidence Act.

Conviction Based on FIR Alone: Since the FIR is not substantive evidence, A cannot be
convicted solely based on his confession in the FIR. The prosecution needs independent evidence
to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This could include:

 Forensic evidence: Blood analysis on the axe, DNA evidence at the crime scene, etc.

 Circumstantial evidence: A's opportunity, motive, or any incriminating behavior.

 Witness testimony: If someone saw A near the scene of the crime around the time of the
murder.
Conclusion: The FIR can be a starting point for the investigation but cannot be the sole basis for
conviction. The prosecution will need to gather independent evidence to prove A's guilt.

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