IPC Section 160
What Does Section 160 Say?
Section 160 of the Indian Penal Code empowers a public servant (usually police or an investigating officer) to require the attendance of any person who appears to be acquainted with the facts and circumstances of a case or who may be able to provide useful information during an investigation.
📝 Simplified Explanation:
When a public servant is investigating a case or gathering information,
They can ask any person whom they think has relevant information to come to a certain place to give that information or to be questioned.
The person must comply and attend when required.
If the person refuses to attend, the public servant may use legal means to compel attendance.
⚖️ Key Elements:
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Public servant | Officer conducting investigation (e.g., police) |
| Person acquainted with facts | Any person who may help the investigation by their knowledge |
| Power to require attendance | Public servant can summon the person to come and give information |
| Compliance | Person must obey the summons to attend |
📌 Purpose:
To assist investigations by ensuring witnesses or knowledgeable persons can be questioned.
To prevent obstruction or delays in the collection of evidence.
To gather facts for justice to be served effectively.
🧾 Example:
A robbery has occurred.
The police officer thinks a neighbor saw the incident.
The officer uses Section 160 to ask the neighbor to come to the police station to give a statement.
🔥 Important Notes:
The person’s attendance can be compelled by law if they refuse.
This is not a punishment, but a legal power to aid investigation.
The person is expected to cooperate and provide truthful information.
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