Cheatsheet
Cognizance & Pre-Trial Procedure under BNSS 2023
Criminal Procedure
Criminal Procedure
Cognizance & Pre-Trial Procedure under BNSS 2023From Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023
Quick reference guide to how Magistrates take cognizance of criminal offences under Sections 210 to 227 of the BNSS 2023, contrasting police reports against private complaint proceedings.
5 steps · 2 deadlines
Step by step
- 1
Three Sources of Cognizance
Magistrate of the first class may take cognizance upon: (a) receiving a complaint of facts, (b) a police report, or (c) information from any person other than police, or suo motu.
- 2
Examination of Complainant on Oath
On a private complaint, the Magistrate must examine the complainant and witnesses on oath and reduce substance to writing. Under BNSS proviso, accused must be given opportunity to be heard.
- 3
Postponement for Preliminary Inquiry
If accused resides beyond local jurisdiction, or if Magistrate doubts veracity, process is postponed for court inquiry or police investigation.
- 4
Dismissal of Complaint
If after considering statements and inquiry results there is no sufficient ground for proceeding, the Magistrate dismisses the complaint with written reasons.
- 5
Issue of Process
If in the opinion of Magistrate there is sufficient ground to proceed, summons is issued in summons-cases, or warrant/summons in warrant-cases.
Deadlines
Notice before taking cognizance on private complaint
Mandatory opportunity of being heard to the accused under BNSS s. 223 proviso
Postponement of process (Accused outside jurisdiction)
Mandatory inquiry or investigation before issuing process
Sections at a glance
| Subject | Provision |
|---|---|
| Cognizance by Magistrate | BNSS Section 210 →CrPC Section 190 → |
| Examination of Complainant | BNSS Section 223 →CrPC Section 200 → |
| Procedure where Magistrate not competent | BNSS Section 224 →CrPC Section 201 → |
| Postponement of Issue of Process | BNSS Section 225 →CrPC Section 202 → |
| Dismissal of Complaint | BNSS Section 226 →CrPC Section 203 → |
| Issue of Process | BNSS Section 227 →CrPC Section 204 → |