Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) 1898
The procedural law that provides the machinery for the punishment of offenders against the substantive criminal law (PPC).
Download CrPC (Full Text)
Access the complete rules regarding Police, Bail, and Trial procedures.
Download PDFPPC vs. CrPC
PPC tells you "What is a crime" (e.g., Murder is Section 302).
CrPC tells you "How to handle the criminal" (e.g., How to arrest, investigate, and try the murderer).
Important Procedural Sections
Below are the most critical sections for lawyers and citizens dealing with police stations and courts.
Investigation & Police Powers
Sections 154 - 173
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Section 154
First Information Report (FIR): Information given to police regarding a cognizable offense. Mandatory Registration
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Section 161
Statement of Witnesses: Police power to examine witnesses during investigation. These are not admissible as absolute evidence but are used for contradiction. Police Diary
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Section 173
Report of Police Officer (Challan): Final report submitted to Magistrate after investigation completion (Guilty/Innocent). Submission of Challan
Remedy against Police
Section 22-A / 22-B
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Sec 22-A / 22-B
Justice of Peace: Powers of Sessions Judge to order registration of FIR if Police refuses to do so, or to stop harassment. Ex-Officio Justice of Peace
Bail & Remand
Sections 496 - 498
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Section 497
Post-Arrest Bail: Grant of bail in non-bailable offenses (after the person is arrested). Bail After Arrest
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Section 498
Pre-Arrest Bail: Grant of bail before arrest to prevent humiliation or malafide arrest. Bail Before Arrest (BBA)
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Section 167
Physical Remand: Procedure when investigation cannot be completed in 24 hours. Accused is presented before Magistrate. Police Custody
Trial & Judgment
Sections 265-K / 249-A
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Sec 265-K
Acquittal at any stage: Power of Court to acquit accused at any stage if there is no probability of conviction. Sessions Trial
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Section 417
Appeal against Acquittal: Procedure to challenge the acquittal of an accused. High Court Appeal