Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita Chapter 13 – Informing the Police and Their Investigation Powers
Introduction The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, has superseded the old Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973. Aiming to update and refine criminal procedure in India, BNSS presents several reforms to boost investigation effectiveness, ensure openness, and secure individual rights. Chapter 13 of BNSS , titled “Information to the Police and Their Powers to Investigate”, centers on how criminal cases start – from when information is given to the police to how investigations go forward. This chapter covers vital procedures that affect both the accused and the victims, including FIR registration, preliminary inquiries, investigation rights, and timelines. Understanding Chapter 13's Scope This chapter mostly corresponds with Sections 154 to 176 of the abolished CrPC. The goal is to regulate: How police obtain and register information about cognizable and non-cognizable offenses. When and how a First Information Report (FIR) is registered. The process of starting and c...