What Is BNSS Section 178?

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 - Section 178: Power to hold investigation or preliminary inquiry

The Magistrate, on receiving report under section 176, may direct an investigation, or, if he thinks fit, at once proceed, or depute any Magistrate subordinate to him to proceed, to hold a preliminary inquiry into, or otherwise to dispose of, the case in the manner provided in this Sanhita.

Brefe Detail

Section 178 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, outlines the powers of a Magistrate upon receiving a report under section 176. It grants the Magistrate the authority to either direct an investigation or to conduct a preliminary inquiry personally or through a subordinate Magistrate.

Question & Answers

Q: What does Section 178 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita entail?

A: It allows the Magistrate, upon receiving a report under section 176, to direct an investigation or to hold a preliminary inquiry.

Q: Can the Magistrate proceed directly with the inquiry?

A: Yes, the Magistrate may proceed directly or appoint a subordinate Magistrate to conduct the inquiry.

Q: What is the purpose of this section?

A: The purpose is to provide a framework for the Magistrate to manage cases effectively after receiving police reports.

Example

- A Magistrate receives a police report regarding a theft. According to Section 178, he can decide to either initiate an investigation himself or delegate the task to another Magistrate.

Summary

Section 178 empowers a Magistrate to take immediate action upon receiving a report under section 176 by directing investigations or conducting preliminary inquiries, ensuring that cases are handled efficiently and appropriately according to the law.