IPC Section 155
IPC Section 155 – Police Officer’s Power to Require Attendance of Persons
Bare Act Language:
"(1) Any police officer in charge of a police station may require the attendance before him of any person who, from his knowledge or attendance, may be able to give information respecting any unlawful act which has been committed, or which such officer has reason to suspect has been committed.
(2) Every person so required shall attend accordingly, and shall be bound to give all information in his power respecting the offence to the best of his knowledge and belief."_
Explanation in Detail:
1. Purpose of Section 155:
Section 155 gives the police officer in charge of a police station the authority to summon or require attendance of persons who may have information about a crime.
It helps police gather preliminary information for investigation.
2. Key Elements:
Who can be called? Anyone who may have knowledge or has attended the place where an unlawful act (crime) has occurred or is suspected to have occurred.
The police officer can require them to come and give information.
The person is bound to attend and give information to the best of their knowledge and belief.
This is a non-formal power; no written summons or warrant is necessary.
3. Difference from Section 161:
Section 155 is about the power to require attendance (asking a person to appear before the police).
Section 161 deals with the recording of statements once the person is present.
4. Purpose in Investigation:
The section ensures police have the power to collect initial information from witnesses or people connected with the case.
It helps in identifying facts and possible suspects during early stages.
5. Rights of the Person:
The person is legally bound to provide information to the best of their knowledge.
However, like in all police questioning, the right against self-incrimination applies.
Summary:
Section 155 empowers police officers to require attendance of persons who might have information about a crime.
It is a preliminary power to call witnesses or informants.
The persons so called must attend and provide information honestly.
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