CrPC Section 150
Section 150 CrPC: Police Officer’s Power to Investigate Cognizable Offences Without the Magistrate’s Order
What does Section 150 say?
This section grants police officers the authority to investigate a cognizable offense without first obtaining the Magistrate’s order.
Detailed Explanation:
When a police officer receives information about a cognizable offense (an offense for which police can start an investigation without prior approval of the Magistrate),
The police officer may proceed to investigate the case immediately, without waiting for directions or orders from the Magistrate,
This power allows the police to act swiftly to investigate serious offenses to maintain law and order.
Key Points:
What are cognizable offenses?
These are serious crimes like murder, rape, robbery, etc., where police have the power to start an investigation without Magistrate’s permission.
Police action without Magistrate’s order:
Section 150 explicitly authorizes the police to begin investigation immediately upon receiving information about such offenses.
Purpose:
To prevent delays in investigation of serious crimes,
To enable timely collection of evidence and apprehension of offenders.
Does not apply to non-cognizable offenses:
For minor offenses (non-cognizable), police need Magistrate’s permission before investigating.
Practical Scenario:
Police get information that a robbery has taken place.
Without waiting for the Magistrate’s approval, police start investigating, gather evidence, and arrest suspects.
This quick action is possible due to Section 150.
Relation to Other Sections:
Section 154 CrPC: Registration of First Information Report (FIR).
Section 156(1) CrPC: Police power to investigate without Magistrate’s order (similar to Section 150).
Section 155 CrPC: Directions for investigation of non-cognizable cases require Magistrate’s order.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Applies to | Cognizable offenses |
| Who acts? | Police officer receiving information |
| Police power | To start investigation without Magistrate’s order |
| Purpose | Prompt investigation to ensure justice and public safety |
| Limitations | Does not apply to non-cognizable offenses |
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