CrPC Section 201
Section 201 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973
Causing Disappearance of Evidence or Giving False Information to Screen Off a Person
Bare Text of Section 201:
"Whoever, knowing or having reason to believe that an offence has been committed, causes any evidence of the commission of that offence to disappear, with intent to screen any person from legal punishment, shall be punished in the same way as if he had committed the offence himself."
Detailed Explanation:
1. Purpose and Context:
Section 201 deals with the offence of tampering with evidence or giving false information to protect a culprit.
It aims to prevent the destruction or concealment of evidence that is crucial for the investigation and prosecution of crimes.
2. Key Provisions:
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Knowledge or Belief of Offence | The accused must know or reasonably believe that an offence has been committed. |
| Causing Evidence to Disappear | Removing, destroying, or concealing any evidence related to the offence. |
| Intent to Screen Offender | The act must be done with the intention to protect or shield a person from punishment. |
| Punishment | The person is punished as if they committed the original offence. |
3. Scope:
Applies not only to physical evidence but also to giving false information that misleads the investigation.
The law is strict to deter obstruction of justice.
4. Practical Example:
If a person helps destroy a weapon used in a crime to protect the criminal, they can be charged under Section 201.
Similarly, if someone knowingly gives false leads to police to protect the offender, it falls under this section.
5. Importance:
Protects the integrity of criminal investigations.
Ensures that offenders cannot escape justice due to tampering with evidence.
Acts as a strong deterrent against aiding criminals post-offence.
Summary Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Offence | Causing disappearance of evidence or giving false info |
| Knowledge Requirement | Must know or reasonably believe an offence was committed |
| Intent | To shield or screen off a person from punishment |
| Punishment | Same as for the original offence |
| Purpose | Prevent obstruction of justice and tampering with evidence |
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