CrPC Section 156
CrPC Section 156 – Police Officer’s Power to Investigate Cognizable Offences
Text of Section 156 (Simplified):
(1) A police officer has the authority to investigate any cognizable offence without the direction of a Magistrate.
(2) If, after receiving information about a cognizable offence, the police officer refuses to register a case or investigate, the aggrieved person can approach a Magistrate, who may then order the police to investigate or take other necessary action.
Explanation:
Cognizable offences are serious crimes (like murder, theft, assault) where the police can start an investigation on their own.
Section 156 gives police the power to investigate such offences immediately after getting information, without waiting for Magistrate's orders.
If the police refuse or neglect to investigate, the victim or complainant can ask the Magistrate for help.
The Magistrate can direct the police to investigate or order an investigation by another person.
Key Points:
| Aspect | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Who can investigate | Police officer |
| What offences | Cognizable offences |
| Need for Magistrate’s order | No, police can act on their own |
| Remedy if police refuse | Complainant can approach Magistrate |
| Magistrate’s power | Direct police to investigate or appoint another person |
Example:
If someone reports a burglary (a cognizable offence), the police must register a case and start investigation immediately under Section 156.
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