Stages of a criminal trial under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023…

Stages of a criminal trial under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023

1. FIR
   First Information Report is lodged to start the criminal case.
2. Investigation Commences (Sec 176)
   Police begin investigating the case after the FIR.
3. Remand (if needed) (Sec 187)
   If needed, the accused may be taken into police or judicial custody during investigation.
4. Chargesheet Filed in Magistrate Court (Sec 193(2))
   Police submit the final report (chargesheet) to the Magistrate if there is evidence.
5. Cognizance by Magistrate (Sec 210(1)(b))
   The Magistrate officially takes note of the offence.
6. Summons/Warrants Issued (Sec 227)
   Court may summon or issue a warrant against the accused.
7. Police Report Supplied to Accused (Sec 230)
   A copy of the chargesheet is given to the accused.
8. Committal to Sessions Court (if applicable) (Sec 232)
   If the offence is serious, the Magistrate transfers the case to the Sessions Court.
9. Discharge (Sessions) (Sec 250)
   The court may discharge the accused if there’s no sufficient evidence.
10. Framing of Charge (Sessions) (Sec 251)
    If there is evidence, charges are formally framed against the accused.
11. Plea Before Sessions Court (Sec 252)
    Accused is asked whether they plead guilty or not.
12. Prosecution Evidence (Sessions) (Sec 254)
    Prosecution presents its witnesses and evidence.
13. Closing Purshis
    Prosecution closes its case after presenting all evidence.
14. Accused’s Further Statement (Sec 351)
    Accused is given a chance to explain their side or respond to the evidence.
15. Defense Evidence (Sessions) (Sec 256)
    Accused can present their own witnesses and evidence.
16. Arguments (Prosecution & Defense) (Sec 257)
    Both sides argue their case before the court.